Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe

Craving a dessert that’s rich, moist, and irresistibly chocolatey? Look no further than this Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe! This dessert layers on the decadence with a moist chocolate cake, a creamy chocolate frosting, and a silky chocolate ganache – perfect for any chocolate lover. This recipe will guide you through every step to make this chocolate dream come true in your own kitchen.

Let’s dive into the world of chocolate bliss! Keep reading to get the full, detailed recipe with tips, tricks, and everything you need to make the perfect triple chocolate cake.

---

What is a “Triple Chocolate Cake”?

A Triple Chocolate Cake is a dessert that combines three different types of chocolate: cocoa powder, melted chocolate, and chocolate chips or ganache. The combination of these three layers or components creates an intense chocolate flavor profile, perfect for satisfying even the most serious chocolate cravings. Each element brings something unique – the cocoa powder for depth, the melted chocolate for richness, and the ganache or chips for texture and creaminess. The result is a cake that’s moist, rich, and utterly indulgent.

---

Ingredients List for the Chocolate Cake

To make this ultimate triple chocolate cake, start by gathering these ingredients for the cake layer:

• 1 and ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
• 1 cup (175g) chocolate chips

---

Ingredients List for Chocolate Frosting

The chocolate frosting is what makes this cake truly indulgent. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 and ½ cups (420g) powdered sugar
• ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (90g) melted chocolate (semisweet or dark)

---

Ingredients List for Chocolate Ganache

For the final layer of chocolatey goodness, add a rich ganache. Here are the ingredients:

• 1 cup (175g) dark chocolate, chopped
• ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream

---

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to make adjustments or get creative, here are some substitutions and variations:

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk, such as almond or coconut milk, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream. Use a dairy-free butter substitute for the frosting.
• Sweetness Adjustments: Reduce the sugar in the cake batter if you prefer a less sweet cake.
• Chocolate Chips: Use white or milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate chips for a different flavor.
• Ganache Flavors: Add a tablespoon of liqueur (like Baileys or Kahlua) to the ganache for a unique flavor twist.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this luscious cake? Follow these steps to achieve chocolate perfection:

For the Chocolate Cake

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips for an extra burst of chocolate flavor in every bite.
7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Chocolate Frosting

1. Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Cocoa Powder and Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until incorporated.
3. Add Salt, Cream, and Vanilla: Increase speed to medium and add salt, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
4. Incorporate Melted Chocolate: Pour in the melted chocolate and beat until smooth and glossy.

For the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Combine with Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl, then pour the hot cream over it.
3. Stir until Smooth: Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
4. Cool Slightly: Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring over the cake to prevent it from running too much.

---

How to Cook Triple Chocolate Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Assemble the Cake Layers: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of chocolate frosting on top.
2. Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting, pressing gently.
3. Frost the Entire Cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly.
4. Add Ganache Topping: Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
5. Chill (Optional): For a firmer ganache, refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes before serving.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Boiling Water: The boiling water is essential for blooming the cocoa powder, which enhances the chocolate flavor.
2. Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense, tough cake.
3. Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
4. Pouring Hot Ganache on the Cake: Let the ganache cool slightly to avoid melting the frosting underneath.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

A beautifully presented cake is always more enticing! Here’s how to serve and present your triple chocolate cake:

How to Serve Triple Chocolate Cake

• Cut Generously: This cake is rich, so a thin slice goes a long way.
• Pair with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a lovely contrast.
• Top with Fresh Berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a pop of color and a hint of tartness that complements the chocolate.

Presentation Ideas for Triple Chocolate Cake

• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings or curls on top for an elegant finish.
• Dust with Cocoa Powder: A light dusting of cocoa powder gives a rustic look.
• Drip Ganache Artfully: Let some of the ganache drip down the sides of the cake for a professional, glossy finish.

---

Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe Tips

• Chill the Frosting: If your frosting is too soft, chill it for 10-15 minutes before applying it to the cake.
• Double the Ganache: If you love ganache, make extra and pour a thicker layer over the cake.
• Use Quality Chocolate: Good quality cocoa powder and chocolate make a huge difference in taste.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the cake layers a day ahead and frost it the day of serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before frosting and serving.

Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
A: Yes, but keep in mind it will be sweeter and may not have the same rich chocolate flavor as dark chocolate.

---

Conclusion

This Triple Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. With three layers of chocolatey goodness, each bite is packed with rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth decadence. Follow this recipe carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you need a little extra sweetness in your life.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family – they’ll thank you! Happy baking!

Print