Easy: Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe From Scratch Today!
The baking landscape features many desserts, and within that category, rich chocolate cakes hold a prominent position. Certain types, celebrated for their dense texture and intensely chocolate flavor, evoke images of homemade comfort and celebratory occasions. This particular dessert preparation often signifies a dedication to quality ingredients and a preference for authentic culinary experiences.
Equipment
- A 9x13 inch baking pan provides the necessary dimensions for the cake.
- Measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
- An electric mixer streamlines the process of combining wet and dry components.
- A whisk assists in incorporating air and blending ingredients smoothly.
- A rubber spatula facilitates scraping the bowl and folding ingredients.
- A wire rack enables proper cooling after baking.
- A saucepan is necessary for preparing the optional fudge frosting.
- Finally, a wooden skewer confirms the cake's doneness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chopped (for optional fudge frosting)
- cup unsalted butter for optional fudge frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar for optional fudge frosting
- cup milk for optional fudge frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for optional fudge frosting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until just combined. The batter will be thin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Fudge Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, melt the chopped chocolate and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the frosting over the cooled cake and spread evenly. Let the frosting set before slicing and serving.
- Tips: For a richer flavor, substitute strong brewed coffee for the boiling water. For a chocolate ganache frosting, use equal parts heavy cream and chocolate. Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
Variations
The basic "chocolate fudge cake recipe from scratch" lends itself to numerous adaptations. Consider the following:- Ingredient Swaps: All-purpose flour may be substituted with a gluten-free blend for individuals with dietary restrictions. The buttermilk can be replaced with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar. Dark chocolate chunks or nuts can be incorporated into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Regional Styles: Some regions favor the addition of spices like cinnamon or chili powder to enhance the chocolate notes. Others might incorporate local ingredients such as maple syrup or coffee liqueur for a unique twist.
- Dietary Adjustments: Reduced-sugar versions can be achieved by using sugar substitutes or reducing the amount of sugar in the original recipe. Vegan variations can be prepared by substituting eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives.