When it comes to indulgent desserts, few can rival the allure of a Chocolate Brownie Cake. This recipe seamlessly blends the best of two beloved treats—classic chocolate cake and rich fudge brownies—into one decadent dessert. The result is a perfect balance of moist, soft cake with a dense, fudgy brownie texture, all drenched in a smooth, shiny chocolate ganache.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its richness and texture but also in its simplicity. By combining boxed cake and brownie mixes with a few pantry staples, you can create a dessert that feels homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a foolproof recipe that even novice bakers can execute with ease.

What’s more, this cake’s versatility makes it perfect for all occasions, whether you’re hosting a special event, celebrating a birthday, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving. Serve it as-is for a casual dessert, or dress it up with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant presentation. This Chocolate Brownie Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a rich, chocolatey escape in every bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Brownie Cake plays a specific role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• Chocolate Cake Mix: This forms the base of the cake, providing structure and the classic chocolate flavor. Using a mix saves time while delivering consistent results.
• Fudge Brownie Mix: The brownie mix adds that signature dense, fudgy texture that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the cake.
• Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the ingredients together. They also add moisture and contribute to the cake’s rise, ensuring a soft and tender crumb.
• Water: Water is a key liquid ingredient that hydrates the dry ingredients, ensuring the batter has the right consistency. It also adds moisture without introducing extra fat.
• Oil: Oil keeps the cake moist and soft, contributing to a rich, tender texture. It’s a great choice for ensuring that the cake stays fresh longer.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Used in the ganache, heavy cream adds a silky smooth texture and rich flavor that complements the semi-sweet chocolate.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels: The semi-sweet chocolate provides the perfect balance of sweetness and richness for the ganache. It melts smoothly, resulting in a glossy, professional-looking finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions with Tips

Preheat Oven and Prepare the Bundt Pan 

Before starting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Properly preparing your bundt pan is essential to ensure your cake releases easily. Coat it thoroughly with baking spray, or use butter and flour to prevent sticking. A well-greased pan will ensure a clean release after baking.

Sift Dry Ingredients 

Sift together the chocolate cake mix and fudge brownie mix in a large mixing bowl. Sifting helps remove any lumps, ensuring a smoother, more uniform batter. It also aerates the ingredients, contributing to a lighter texture. If you don’t have a sifter, whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly to break up clumps and ensure even distribution.

Combine Wet Ingredients 

Add the eggs, water, and oil to the dry mixture. Whisk the ingredients together for about two minutes, until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense, tough cake. The batter should have a slightly thick consistency, thanks to the combination of cake and brownie mixes. The eggs provide lift, while the oil ensures the cake stays moist.

Bake the Cake 

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If the cake seems underdone in the center, cover it loosely with foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before turning it out onto a cooling rack.

Cool and Prepare Ganache 

While the cake is cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy whipping cream for about 2 minutes, or until it just begins to boil. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate morsels and let it sit for 5 minutes. Afterward, whisk the mixture until it becomes shiny and smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to avoid melting the surface.

Final Assembly 

Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the ganache over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful, glossy finish. For extra flair, garnish with toppings like chocolate shavings or sprinkles.

Baking Tips and Tricks

• Using High-Quality Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate will impact the flavor and texture of the ganache. Choose high-quality semi-sweet chocolate morsels to ensure a rich, smooth finish.
• How to Adjust for Altitude or Different Pan Sizes: If baking at high altitude, decrease the baking powder slightly and increase the liquid to maintain moisture. Alternatively, if you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use a standard cake pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly (usually 5-10 minutes less for a shallower pan).
• Alternative Ingredients: Experiment with variations like using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet, or add nuts or chocolate chunks to the batter for extra texture. For a flavored twist, try substituting half of the oil with flavored oils, such as hazelnut or almond.
• Preventing Common Issues: Avoid a dry cake by not overbaking. Check your cake regularly and remove it from the oven once a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. If your brownie layer is too gooey, you may need to bake the cake a bit longer or adjust the wet ingredients slightly.

Decoration and Presentation Ideas

• Additional Toppings: Elevate your cake by adding fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a handful of chopped nuts on top of the ganache. These garnishes not only enhance the cake’s appearance but also introduce new flavors and textures.
• Serving Suggestions: For an extra indulgent touch, serve slices of the Chocolate Brownie Cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. The contrast between the warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful experience.
• Perfect for Occasions: This cake is ideal for various occasions, whether it’s a birthday party, dinner gathering, or simply a casual dessert to enjoy after a long day. Its rich flavor and impressive presentation make it a go-to recipe for impressing guests or indulging in a sweet treat.

Health Considerations and Customization Options

For those looking to enjoy this Chocolate Brownie Cake with fewer calories, there are a few easy substitutions. You can swap out part of the oil for unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while keeping the cake moist. Another option is to use light cream instead of heavy whipping cream in the ganache, though the texture may be slightly less rich. Additionally, choosing low-calorie or sugar-free chocolate morsels can further cut down on calories without sacrificing the chocolate flavor.

If you’re catering to dairy-free or vegan dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. Replace the heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk to create a creamy ganache. For the cake batter, opt for dairy-free chocolate chips and use plant-based alternatives such as almond milk or oat milk. You can also substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan-friendly version. With a few simple swaps, you can customize this decadent dessert to suit various dietary needs.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
   Yes, you can experiment with different cake mix flavors to create variations on the original recipe. Vanilla, red velvet, or even spice cake mixes can be used for a unique twist. Keep in mind that changing the flavor might alter the overall taste and texture slightly, but it can still be delicious.
2. What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?
   If you don’t have heavy whipping cream, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even evaporated milk as a substitute for the ganache. For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk, which will provide a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
3. How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
   Thoroughly grease the bundt pan using either butter and flour or a baking spray designed for non-stick purposes. A silicone bundt pan is another great option, as it naturally has non-stick properties that help the cake release easily.
4. How long will the cake last?
   Once baked, the cake can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days if kept in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it, where it will last for up to a week. The refrigeration can help maintain the cake’s moisture and keep the ganache fresh.
5. Can I freeze this cake?
   Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature for a few hours before serving, and it will taste just as fresh.

Conclusion

Making this Chocolate Brownie Cake is a rewarding experience, blending rich, decadent flavors with a simple, straightforward process. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. The combination of chocolate cake and brownie layers, topped with a smooth ganache, creates a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With customizable toppings and dietary alternatives, this cake can be tailored to fit various preferences. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this indulgent treat by experimenting with flavors and decorations!

Chocolate Brownie Cake

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This Chocolate Brownie Cake recipe combines the rich, moist texture of a classic chocolate cake with the dense, fudgy layers of a brownie, all topped with a smooth, luxurious chocolate ganache. It’s the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers and is surprisingly easy to make using a mix of store-bought cake and brownie mixes. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a comforting treat, this cake is sure to impress with its flavor and presentation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 box fudge brownie mix
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup oil
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate morsels

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease a bundt pan with either baker’s spray or a combination of butter and flour to prevent the cake from sticking.
• Sift Dry Ingredients:
  In a large mixing bowl, sift together the chocolate cake mix and fudge brownie mix to remove any lumps and ensure an even, smooth batter.
• Add Wet Ingredients:
  Add the eggs, water, and oil to the dry mixture. Using a whisk or hand mixer, blend for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
• Pour and Bake:
  Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool the Cake:
  Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently turn it out onto a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely for at least 30 minutes before adding the ganache.
• Make the Ganache:
  In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy whipping cream for about 2 minutes or until it begins to boil. Add the semi-sweet chocolate morsels to the hot cream and let it sit for 5 minutes. Whisk until the ganache is shiny and smooth.
• Pour Ganache:
  Once the cake is fully cooled, pour the ganache over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.

Notes

• Choosing the Right Pan:
  Using a bundt pan gives this cake a beautiful, professional appearance, but you can also use a standard cake pan if you prefer. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if using a different pan size.
• Ganache Consistency:
  If the ganache seems too thick, add a little more heated cream and whisk again until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cool for a few more minutes before pouring it over the cake.
• Storage Tips:
  This cake can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
• Customization:
  Feel free to experiment with additional toppings such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or fresh berries to enhance both the flavor and appearance of the cake.