Name: Chocolate Drip Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-484635H54M43S
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; ¾ cup (60 g) Dutch-process cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 2 cups (400 g) granulated white sugar; ¾ cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature; ½ cup (120 ml) hot coffee; 1 ½ cups (336 g) unsalted butter, softened; 6 oz (170 g) dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled; ½ cup + 2 tbsp (50 g) Dutch-process cocoa powder; 3 cups (390 g) powdered sugar; 4-6 tbsp (60-90 ml) heavy cream; 3 oz (85 g) dark chocolate, chopped; ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream

This Chocolate Drip Cake is a rich, fudgy, and moist dark chocolate layer cake filled and frosted with silky smooth dark chocolate buttercream, finished with a dark chocolate ganache drip. It’s an indulgent treat that combines deep chocolate flavors with an elegant appearance, making it perfect for special occasions or a delightful dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Chocolate Flavor: The use of Dutch process cocoa powder imparts a deep, sophisticated chocolate taste that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate lover.
Moist and Fudgy Texture: The combination of ingredients like buttermilk and hot coffee ensures a cake that’s both moist and has a delightful fudgy crumb.
Silky Buttercream Frosting: The dark chocolate buttercream is made with melted dark chocolate and cocoa powder, resulting in a smooth and luscious frosting.
Elegant Ganache Drip: The dark chocolate ganache adds a touch of sophistication, creating a beautiful drip effect that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Dark Chocolate Cake:

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
3/4 cup (60 g) Dutch process cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups (400 g) granulated white sugar
3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups (300 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
1/2 cup (120 ml) hot coffee

For the Dark Chocolate Buttercream:

1 1/2 cups (336 g) unsalted butter, softened
6 oz. (170 g) dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (50 g) Dutch process cocoa powder
3 cups (390 g) powdered sugar
4-6 tbsp (60-90 ml) heavy cream

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

3 oz (85 g) dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper circles.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar-egg mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk in two additions. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed after each addition until just combined.
Add Hot Coffee: Stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 39-44 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Dark Chocolate Buttercream:

Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate using a microwave or double boiler. Let it cool slightly.
Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Add Cocoa Powder: Mix in the cocoa powder until well combined.
Incorporate Melted Chocolate: Add the melted chocolate to the butter-cocoa mixture and beat until smooth.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed and then increasing to medium speed until the mixture is fluffy.
Adjust Consistency: Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a spreadable consistency.

3. Assemble the Cake:

Level the Cakes: If the cakes have domed on top, use a serrated knife to level them so they stack evenly.
First Layer of Buttercream: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of dark chocolate buttercream over the top.
Second Cake Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the buttercream.
Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of buttercream over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
Final Buttercream Layer: After chilling, apply a final, thicker layer of buttercream over the cake, smoothing the sides and top.

4. Prepare the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
Combine with Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Drip the Ganache: Let the ganache cool slightly before drizzling it over the top of the cake. Use a spoon to create drips along the edges, and then pour the remaining ganache over the center of the cake.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes a beautiful 2-layer cake, which serves approximately 10-12 people. The preparation time is about 30 minutes, and baking the cake takes 39-44 minutes. After assembling, the cake needs at least 30 minutes of refrigeration for the crumb coat to set.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process cocoa, but the flavor and color may differ slightly.

How can I make the buttercream fluffier?

Ensure that the butter is softened properly before beating, and add the powdered sugar gradually to avoid a dense frosting.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

You can substitute milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, but the flavor will change.

How do I prevent my ganache from hardening too quickly?

Make sure the cream is hot but not boiling before mixing with the chocolate, and allow it to cool slightly before applying it to the cake.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How can I make this cake more decorative?

You can add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or edible gold leaf to the top of the cake for an extra touch of elegance.

What should I do if my cake layers are too uneven?

Use a serrated knife to level the cakes after they have cooled, creating an even surface for frosting.

Can I use dairy-free butter and cream for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free alternatives for the butter and cream to make this cake dairy-free.

How can I make this cake less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and buttercream, but be aware that this may alter the texture slightly.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Drip Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or indulgent treat moments. With its rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and elegant ganache drip, it’s sure to impress anyone who gets a slice. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized with different toppings or flavor variations to suit your preferences. Enjoy baking and indulging in this decadent treat!