Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

This Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that brings together dense chocolate cake, creamy fudge filling, and a generous topping of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this layered treat is a show-stopping addition to any celebration or dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you enjoy decadent chocolate desserts, this recipe will become a favorite. The moist cake layers are balanced with a smooth fudge filling and a fluffy whipped topping that adds a light contrast. It looks elegant and impressive yet is surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Sour cream or plain yogurt
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream
• Semi-sweet chocolate (for fudge filling)
• Powdered sugar
• Chocolate curls or shavings (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a rectangular baking dish or cake pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla.
5. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with milk and sour cream.
6. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before assembling.
8. For the fudge layer, heat heavy cream and pour over chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Stir until smooth. Let cool and thicken slightly.
9. Spread the fudge layer evenly over the cooled cake.
10. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls. Chill before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 to 16 slices
• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Bake time: 35–40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus cooling)

Variations

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the fudge layer for a crunchy element.
• Coffee twist: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso to the cake batter for a mocha flavor.
• Mint version: Use mint extract in the whipped topping and garnish with mint chocolate chips.

Storage/reheating

Store this cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, serve slightly chilled. It is not recommended to freeze the whipped cream layer, but you can freeze the cake and fudge base (without topping) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What kind of chocolate is best for the fudge layer?

Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate works best for a rich, balanced flavor.

Can I use boxed cake mix?

Yes, you can use a chocolate boxed mix as a shortcut and focus on the fudge and whipped topping layers.

Is the whipped cream homemade or store-bought?

You can use either. Homemade whipped cream provides a fresher taste, but store-bought works fine for convenience.

How do I make chocolate curls?

Use a vegetable peeler to shave a block of chocolate. Chilling the chocolate slightly helps with smooth curls.

Can I add a layer of fruit?

Yes, sliced strawberries or raspberries can be added between the fudge and whipped cream layers.

How long should the cake cool before layering?

Let the cake cool completely, at least 1 hour, to avoid melting the fudge layer.

Can this be made in advance?

Yes, it is even better made a day ahead to let the layers set in the refrigerator.

Is it necessary to chill the cake before serving?

Chilling helps firm up the fudge and whipped topping, making it easier to slice.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, but the result will be sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake is a luxurious dessert that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. With layers of moist cake, rich chocolate fudge, and airy whipped cream, it offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that make it perfect for special occasions or an impressive dessert anytime.

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