Hearty Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe

Chocolate lovers will agree, nothing beats a homemade Chocolate Fudge Cake that’s rich, moist, and full of deep cocoa flavor. This recipe uses simple ingredients like cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and eggs, yet the result is a bakery-style dessert that works well for birthdays, family gatherings, or as a weekend treat.

The combination of moist cake layers and creamy frosting makes every slice indulgent without being overly complicated to prepare. Whether you are a beginner baker or more experienced, this recipe is reliable, easy to follow, and produces consistent results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Moist and soft texture – The use of vegetable oil, milk, and boiling water ensures the cake stays tender and light.
• Rich chocolate flavor – Cocoa powder gives the cake its deep, chocolatey taste that pairs perfectly with fudge frosting or ganache.
• Simple ingredients – Everything needed is likely already in your pantry, making it convenient and budget-friendly.
• Beginner-friendly – The recipe uses straightforward steps with no advanced baking techniques required.
• Perfect for any occasion – From birthdays to holidays or casual family desserts, this cake fits every celebration.
• Customizable – You can decorate it with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fruit to make it extra special.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare a moist and rich Chocolate Fudge Cake, gather the following ingredients. Each plays a key role in creating the perfect texture and flavor:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cake and balances the cocoa powder.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps keep it moist.
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Provides the deep chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa for the best taste.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise evenly and adds lightness.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda – Works with the baking powder to create lift and a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the batter together, add moisture, and contribute to the cake’s soft texture.
• 1 cup milk – Keeps the cake tender and adds richness. Whole milk works best, but low-fat milk can also be used.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Provides moisture, making the cake soft and preventing it from drying out.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic flavor to complement the chocolate.
• 1 cup boiling water – Intensifies the cocoa flavor and gives the batter a smooth consistency.

Optional for decoration and serving:

• Chocolate fudge frosting or ganache for layering and covering the cake
• Chocolate sprinkles, curls, or shavings for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results:

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended. This ensures the leavening agents are distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

• Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract directly into the dry mixture.
• Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer. The batter should look smooth and slightly thick at this stage.

Step 4: Incorporate the Boiling Water

• Slowly pour in the boiling water while mixing on low speed. The batter will become thin, which is normal and key for achieving a moist cake.
• Mix until the water is fully combined and the batter is smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
• Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

• Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool for about 10 minutes in their pans.
• Transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

• Spread chocolate fudge frosting or ganache between the cooled cake layers and over the top and sides.
• Decorate with chocolate sprinkles, curls, or shavings if desired.
• Slice into portions and serve.

Recipe Tips

• Ensure your boiling water is freshly boiled before adding to the batter.
• Don’t overmix—just combine until smooth.
• For extra indulgence, use a rich chocolate ganache instead of frosting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.