Fudgy Brownie Cake

Decadent Delight: Easy Fudgy Brownie Cake That Melts in Your Mouth

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Fudgy Brownie Cake

Imagine sinking your fork into a rich, fudgy brownie cake, where each bite is pure chocolate bliss, dense yet soft, with a smooth ganache that glides over your palate. There’s something irresistibly comforting about this brownie cake – it’s the perfect harmony of a classic brownie and a moist, layered cake. This recipe is designed to satisfy even the most demanding chocolate cravings while being easy to follow, making it ideal for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.

This Fudgy Brownie Cake has three delicious layers, each infused with deep cocoa flavor and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. The ganache adds the finishing touch, creating an indulgent look and flavor that makes this cake a showstopper. If you’re a chocolate lover, this cake might just become your new go-to dessert. Not only is it fun to make, but it’s also guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it to guests or treating yourself.

Tools Needed

  • Three 6” or 8” round cake pans – These pans will create perfect layers.
  • Mixing bowls – For the wet, dry, and frosting mixtures.
  • Whisk – For blending ingredients smoothly.
  • Spatula – Helpful for folding ingredients and spreading frosting.
  • Microwave-safe bowl – For melting chocolate and butter.
  • Parchment paper – To line cake pans for easy release.
  • Cooling rack – For cooling layers evenly.
  • Offset spatula – For spreading ganache and frosting smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Fudgy Brownie Cake Layers

  • 7 large eggs (at room temperature) – Ensures a rich, stable batter.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds intense chocolate flavor.
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar – For a subtle caramel note.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup butter (melted)
  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
  • ¾ cup cocoa powder
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)

For the Ganache

  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Optional Garnish

  • Brownie pieces – Bite-sized for topping, if desired.

Instructions

Brownie Layers

  1. If you plan to garnish with brownies, bake these first to give them time to cool and set.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare three 6-inch or 8-inch round cake pans by spraying with nonstick spray, lining the bottoms with parchment paper, and placing parchment strips around the sides.
  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chopped chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugars, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk vigorously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture lightens and becomes frothy.
  6. Slowly pour in the melted butter and chocolate mixture, continuing to whisk until fully incorporated.
  7. Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a tender texture.
  8. Evenly divide the batter among the three prepared cake pans. Bake 35-40 minutes for 6-inch pans or 30-35 minutes for 8-inch pans, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 30 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a cooling rack. For faster cooling, refrigerate the cakes for about an hour.

Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add the cocoa powder, mixing until well blended, then add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating until smooth.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and salt. If the frosting is too thick, mix in a tablespoon or two of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Assembling the Fudgy Brownie Cake

  1. Once the cake layers have cooled completely, place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
  2. Add the second layer, applying more frosting, and repeat with the third layer. Smooth the frosting around the sides and top of the cake.
  3. Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow the frosting layers to set.

Ganache Drizzle

  1. In a heatproof bowl, place the chopped chocolate.
  2. Heat the heavy cream in the microwave until just bubbling (about 1 minute), then pour over the chocolate. Let it sit for 30 seconds before whisking until smooth and glossy.
  3. Allow the ganache to cool for about 5 minutes, then pour it in the center of the cake. Use an offset spatula or spoon to gently push the ganache toward the edges, letting it drip down the sides.

Finishing Touches

  1. Top with brownie pieces if desired, or leave it with the elegant ganache finish.
  2. Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

  • Add Espresso Powder: A teaspoon of espresso powder in the cake batter will intensify the chocolate flavor.
  • Swap Frosting Flavors: Try a whipped cream or chocolate buttercream frosting for a different taste profile.
  • Personalized Toppings: Use chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even crushed nuts for a decorative touch.
  • Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream pairs beautifully with this rich dessert.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 360 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 3g

FAQ

1. Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost the cake on the day of serving. Keep it refrigerated and bring it to room temperature before enjoying.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will add a creamier, less intense chocolate flavor to the ganache.

4. How can I make the cake extra moist?
Use room-temperature eggs and don’t over-bake. Also, incorporating a tablespoon of oil into the batter will keep it even softer.

5. Can I make this without the cream cheese frosting?
Of course. This cake is equally delicious with a simple ganache topping or a light whipped cream.

Conclusion

This Fudgy Brownie Cake is your go-to recipe for a crowd-pleasing, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. With layers of rich brownie, smooth cream cheese frosting, and a chocolate ganache that drips down beautifully, this cake isn’t just a treat for the tastebuds but a showstopper on any table. Try it once, and you’ll likely be making it again – your friends and family won’t let you forget! Enjoy every decadent bite, and don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow chocolate lovers!