Table of Contents
If you’re looking to create a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds — a rich, dense brownie and a light, fluffy cake — then this chocolate brownie cake recipe is exactly what you need. This dessert is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an easy, fail-proof option for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a treat for your family, this cake will hit the spot. Plus, it’s versatile enough for you to get creative with the flavors and textures.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to make this decadent chocolate brownie cake from scratch, along with expert tips for customization, variations, and even answers to some frequently asked questions.
Ingredients Breakdown
Before we jump into the method, let’s start with the key ingredients you’ll need. What’s great about this recipe is that you can use a combination of pre-made cake mix and brownie mix, or make everything from scratch if you prefer.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 box (18.3 oz) fudge brownie mix
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 ¼ cups water (room temperature)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray. The Bundt pan not only adds a beautiful shape to the cake but also ensures even baking. Properly greasing the pan is critical to ensure that your chocolate brownie cake recipe doesn’t stick when you try to remove it.
2. Mixing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, brownie mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Whisk for about two minutes or until the mixture becomes smooth and lump-free. This batter should be thick and glossy, resembling the perfect blend of cake and brownie texture.
3. Baking the Cake
Once the batter is ready, pour it into the greased Bundt pan. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes. Use a toothpick to test for doneness—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, the cake is perfect.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack.
4. Making the Ganache
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the ganache. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy whipping cream for about 45 seconds until it’s simmering. Then, pour the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cream and let it sit for 5 minutes. Whisk the mixture until smooth and shiny, then pour it over the cooled cake.
5. Adding Finishing Touches
For those who love experimenting with different textures and flavors, consider adding some final touches to your chocolate brownie cake. You can garnish with:
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance
- Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a contrast in flavor
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent experience
For more variations, you can explore how to make classic banana brownies and try adding some banana into this recipe for a fruity twist.
Customizations and Variations
One of the best things about this chocolate brownie cake recipe is that it’s easily customizable. Here are some ideas to make the cake your own:
- Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Add some crunch by folding ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even extra chocolate chips into the batter.
- Flavored Ganache: Instead of using plain semi-sweet chocolate, you can add a splash of vanilla extract, coffee liqueur, or even mint flavoring to the ganache for an extra layer of flavor.
- Alternative Ingredients: If you or your guests are gluten-intolerant, consider swapping the cake mix and brownie mix with gluten-free versions. For a healthier twist, you can also experiment with sugar substitutes or vegan options.
For an easy take on this theme, check out this recipe for irresistible cake brownies from brownie mix, where you can find more tips on how to adjust boxed mixes to your liking.
FAQs About Chocolate Brownie Cake
1. Can I make this cake without using a boxed mix?
Yes, you can absolutely make this cake from scratch if you prefer a more homemade feel. Simply use your favorite chocolate cake and brownie batter recipes, and combine them as instructed above.
2. How do I store this cake?
You can store the cake at room temperature for up to two days. However, to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to five days or freeze it for up to a month. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
3. What’s the best way to prevent the cake from drying out?
The secret to keeping this cake moist lies in not overbaking it. Keep an eye on it while it’s in the oven, and be sure to test it with a toothpick early. If you want extra moisture, consider adding sour cream or yogurt to the batter.
4. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter ganache, you can substitute milk chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate or use dark chocolate if you want a richer flavor.
5. What are some complementary sides for this dessert?
You can pair this chocolate brownie cake recipe with a scoop of ice cream, some fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream. You could also serve it alongside a nice cup of coffee or tea for a perfect dessert experience.
Nutritional Information
This cake is rich and indulgent, making it perfect for a special treat. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (approximately 12 servings):
- Calories: 718
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 85g
- Protein: 10g
While it’s certainly a treat that’s meant to be enjoyed in moderation, the chocolate brownie cake recipe is one of those desserts that’s totally worth the splurge.
Other options for you
For more inspiration, you can explore similar recipes on the Winsome Recipes website. If you loved this chocolate brownie cake recipe, you might also want to check out:
- Delicious Banana Chocolate Brownies Recipe for another fruity chocolate twist
- The Best Cheesecake Brownie Recipe if you’re a fan of rich and creamy cheesecake desserts
- Easy 3-Ingredient Brownies Recipe for when you’re short on time but still craving something chocolatey
These internal links can enhance your baking repertoire and provide you with a wide range of recipes to try for different occasions.
Conclusion
This chocolate brownie cake recipe brings together the best elements of a traditional chocolate cake and a rich brownie. The result is a dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this cake will be a hit with everyone.
Don’t forget to experiment with different variations and toppings to make the recipe uniquely yours. And for those who prefer simplicity, this cake works beautifully with just a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
For more delicious ideas, you can explore this collection of chocolate cake recipes to inspire your next baking adventure!
7 thoughts on “Decadent Chocolate Brownie Cake Recipe”