There is nothing quite like indulging in a perfectly moist and rich chocolate treat, which is why I am beyond excited to share this Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with you. This cake strikes an amazing balance between deep chocolate flavor and a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just craving something incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper that will brighten anyone’s day with its velvety texture and irresistible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tender crumb of the cake to the smooth richness of the frosting, every component is thoughtfully chosen to create a truly special dessert.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body for the cake ensuring it’s tender yet sturdy.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural): Adds that deep, classic chocolate flavor without overpowering.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to its moist texture.
- 2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly and stay light.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate intensity.
- 2 cups warm coffee (not hot, or decaf): Infuses the cake with subtle richness and deepens the chocolate notes.
- 2 Tbsp white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda for an airy crumb and tender bite.
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 2/3 cup light olive oil (not extra virgin): Keeps the cake moist and lends a silky texture.
- 12 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Key ingredient for the frosting that makes it creamy and tangy.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (16 Tbsp, room temperature): Gives the frosting a rich, luscious base.
- 5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreadability.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural): Infuses the frosting with a complementary chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor complexity in the frosting.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, mellow note to the frosting.
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt—in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the warm coffee with white vinegar, vanilla extract, and olive oil. Then, combine the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until everything is just blended. The batter will be quite thin, which is exactly what makes this cake so moist and tender once baked.
Step 2: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remember not to overbake, as you want to keep that moist, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While your cake cools, blend the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until silky smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with cocoa powder and salt, mixing continuously to keep it light and lump-free. Finally, stir in vanilla extract for a beautifully balanced frosting that’s rich yet tangy enough to complement the chocolate cake perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble Your Masterpiece
Once the cakes have cooled completely, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the first layer. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with remaining frosting. Smooth it out with a spatula or create swirls for a more rustic, inviting look. This step is where the magic truly comes together — a stunning cake that tastes just as good as it looks.
How to Serve Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add a fresh splash of flavor, consider topping your cake with fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries. A light dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings adds an elegant touch that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want to add some crunch, roasted nuts like pecans or walnuts sprinkled around the plate create delightful texture contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cake as individual mini-trifles in glass jars, layering cubes of cake with frosting and whipped cream for a playful twist. Alternatively, slice it thinly to make cake sandwiches filled with extra frosting for a fun party treat everyone can enjoy easily.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, this cake will keep well covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, store it in an airtight container inside the refrigerator. Always allow slices to come back to room temperature before serving to bring out the perfect flavor and texture.
Freezing
This Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to two months frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Because of the cream cheese frosting, reheating is best done gently at room temperature rather than with heat. If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just enough to take the chill off while preserving the creamy frosting texture.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of coffee in the cake?
Yes, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor tremendously. If you prefer no coffee, substitute with warm milk or water, though the depth of chocolate richness might be slightly less intense.
Is it necessary to use white vinegar in the recipe?
Absolutely! The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create a light, airy texture in the cake. It’s subtle and you won’t taste it, but it’s essential for that moist crumb.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
You could substitute dairy-free cream cheese, butter alternatives, and non-dairy milk for the coffee, but expect some changes in texture and flavor. The tanginess of cream cheese frosting is key, so a good dairy-free cream cheese option is a must.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Avoid opening the oven too often to prevent sinking.
What’s the best way to get the frosting smooth?
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing, and sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to avoid lumps. Beat on medium speed until fluffy for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, this Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a must-try if you want a dessert that feels both luxurious and lovingly homemade. It’s approachable enough for everyday baking but special enough to impress any crowd. So go ahead—grab your mixing bowls and celebrate the joy of baking with this utterly delicious chocolate cake experience!
Print
Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 14 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and moist chocolate cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, featuring a deep cocoa flavor enhanced by coffee and a smooth cream cheese frosting. The cake is tender and fluffy thanks to the combination of warm coffee, vinegar, and olive oil, making it a delightful treat that serves 14 generous slices.
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups warm coffee (not hot), or use decaf
- 2 Tbsp white vinegar
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup light olive oil (not extra virgin)
Frosting
- 12 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (16 Tbsp, room temperature)
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lightly dusting with flour or lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these first ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and cocoa throughout the batter.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm coffee, white vinegar, vanilla extract, and light olive oil. The warm coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, while vinegar reacts with baking soda to create lift.
- Make the batter: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently but thoroughly until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract, beating continuously until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use light olive oil rather than extra virgin to avoid overpowering the chocolate flavor.
- Warm coffee enhances the chocolate taste but ensure it is not hot to prevent cooking the batter prematurely.
- Room temperature ingredients allow for better mixing and smoother frosting.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
