Short description
Rich Dark Chocolate Cake is a deeply indulgent dessert made with intense cocoa and topped with silky dark chocolate ganache. It’s the ultimate treat for true chocolate enthusiasts who appreciate bold flavor and dense, moist texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake delivers pure, uncompromising chocolate flavor in every bite. It’s moist, rich, and beautifully balanced with a dark ganache that adds gloss and luxury. Ideal for special occasions, holidays, or simply satisfying serious chocolate cravings.

ingredients

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

all-purpose flour
unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
baking powder
baking soda
salt
granulated sugar
eggs
buttermilk
vegetable oil
boiling water or coffee
vanilla extract
dark chocolate
heavy cream (for ganache)
chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
Sift flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl.
In another bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Stir in buttermilk, then slowly add the dry ingredients.
Pour in hot water or coffee and mix until smooth.
Divide batter between pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Cool completely.
For ganache, heat cream until steaming and pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit, then stir until glossy.
Frost the cooled cakes with ganache. Decorate with chocolate curls. Chill briefly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Cooling and assembly: 1 hour
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

Raspberry addition: Layer with raspberry jam for a fruity contrast.
Espresso cake: Use strong coffee instead of boiling water.
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free baking flour blend.
Layered torte: Slice each cake horizontally for a 4-layer dessert.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Serve at room temperature for best texture. Freeze slices wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, but it will result in a milder, sweeter flavor.

How do I get the cake extra moist?

Using buttermilk and oil ensures a soft, moist crumb.

Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, adjust baking time accordingly for different dimensions.

What is the best cocoa to use?

Dutch-process cocoa yields a smoother, more intense chocolate flavor.

Can I make cupcakes instead?

Yes, bake for 18–20 minutes in a standard cupcake tin.

Should I refrigerate the ganache before frosting?

Cool slightly, but keep it spreadable. Too cold and it may harden.

Is this cake too bitter for kids?

It’s rich, but adding more sugar or milk chocolate can adjust the taste.

What’s the purpose of coffee in the batter?

It enhances the depth of chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives.

How long should I let it sit before slicing?

Chill for at least 30 minutes after frosting for clean slices.

Conclusion

Rich Dark Chocolate Cake is the embodiment of chocolate perfection. From its deep flavor to its smooth ganache finish, it promises satisfaction and elegance with every slice.