Short description

This chocolate fudge cake is a rich, moist, and decadent dessert that delivers intense chocolate flavor with a dense, fudgy texture. Made with cocoa powder and real chocolate, it’s perfect for satisfying deep chocolate cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines deep chocolate richness with a tender, moist crumb. It requires only one bowl and simple pantry ingredients. No mixer is needed, and the ganache topping makes it feel elegant without being complicated. It’s ideal for any occasion—casual or formal.

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Salt
Egg
Vegetable oil
Sour cream
Vanilla extract
Hot coffee or boiling water

For the ganache frosting:

Dark chocolate
Heavy cream
Butter
Honey or corn syrup
Salt
Sour cream

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square cake pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, both sugars, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the egg, oil, sour cream, and vanilla. Stir this mixture into the dry ingredients.
Slowly pour in the hot coffee or water while stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the ganache, gently heat the chocolate, cream, butter, honey or corn syrup, and salt in a saucepan until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream. Let it cool to a spreadable consistency.
Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled cake before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 12 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20–25 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 30–40 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a slight tang.
Use decaf coffee or hot water if you prefer no caffeine.
Add a teaspoon of instant espresso for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
Double the recipe and bake in two round pans for a layered cake.

Storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for longer storage—up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

FAQs

What makes this a fudge cake?

A fudge cake has a denser, more moist texture than a regular chocolate cake, often due to the inclusion of real melted chocolate and minimal leavening.

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Yes, but oil generally keeps the cake more moist and soft at room temperature.

Is it necessary to use hot coffee?

Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, but you can use boiling water instead.

Can I skip the ganache?

Yes. The cake is delicious on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Substitute the sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt and use dairy-free chocolate and cream alternatives in the ganache.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Yes, this recipe can make about 12 cupcakes. Bake for 15–18 minutes.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake and frost it a day ahead. Store in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Not if eaten within a day or two. Otherwise, refrigeration helps preserve freshness, especially if frosted.

Can I add flavors like orange or mint?

Yes, adding orange zest, a few drops of mint extract, or even chili powder can create interesting flavor twists.

Conclusion

This chocolate fudge cake is everything a chocolate lover dreams of: moist, rich, easy to prepare, and irresistibly indulgent. With its luscious ganache and deep cocoa flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself