Frosted Chocolate Butter Cake: A Delightfully Moist and Buttery Treat
This rich and moist chocolate butter cake recipe is one of my all-time favorites, passed down from my grandmother five years ago. It’s the kind of cake that makes a perfect dessert for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a casual brunch, serving something sweet at a family gathering, or even as a special treat for the kids. With its buttery crumb, delicious dark chocolate frosting, and a hint of walnuts for texture, this cake is bound to become a family favorite!
Recipe Information
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 12 |
| Calories | 375.5 per serving |
Ingredients
For the Cake:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Butter (unsalted) | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Dark chocolate (chopped or chips) | 2 3/4 oz |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1 1/4 cups |
For the Frosting:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate (chopped) | 2 oz |
| Butter (unsalted) | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Powdered sugar | 1 1/4 cups |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Walnut halves (for decoration) | 12-15 halves |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 375.5 kcal |
| Fat Content | 26.3 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 11.7 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 96.3 mg |
| Sodium Content | 96.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 34.8 g |
| Fiber Content | 3.4 g |
| Sugar Content | 21.2 g |
| Protein Content | 7 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan
Begin by greasing a 7-inch deep round cake pan. For best results, line the base with parchment paper to ensure an easy release once the cake has cooled. This step will keep your cake from sticking, allowing you to get a perfect, smooth finish.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture for 10 minutes or until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale. The batter should leave a trail that lingers for a few seconds when you lift the whisk.
While the eggs and sugar are whipping, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Once the egg mixture is ready, sift together the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Gently fold this dry mixture into the egg mixture using a spatula or a metal spoon. Be careful not to deflate the batter too much—this helps ensure the cake remains light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Butter, Chocolate, and Walnuts
Next, fold in the melted butter and the chopped dark chocolate into the batter. You should see the batter become a bit thicker and more uniform. Then, gently fold in the chopped walnuts, which will add texture and a delightful crunch to the cake.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased and lined cake pan. Place it into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check the cake by gently pressing it with your finger—it should feel springy to the touch when it’s ready. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then flip it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, it’s time to prepare the decadent chocolate frosting. Begin by melting the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before moving on to the next step.
In a separate bowl, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, and milk. Use an electric mixer and beat until the frosting becomes light, pale, and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate and whisk until fully incorporated. The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and just the right consistency for spreading.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, slice it into two even layers. Spread a layer of the frosting between the two cake layers to create a sandwich effect. Then, spread the remaining frosting on top of the cake, ensuring an even coating over the surface and along the edges.
Step 7: Decorate and Serve
To finish off your cake, decorate the top with walnut halves. They not only add a nice aesthetic touch but also a delightful crunch when you bite into the cake.
Slice into this rich, buttery chocolate cake, and enjoy the incredible combination of flavors and textures. The moist cake, paired with the smooth, chocolatey frosting and crunchy walnuts, is sure to become a favorite at your next gathering or simply as an indulgent treat at home.
Tips for Success
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on the cake in the last 5 minutes of baking. To ensure the cake is fully baked, you can insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Chocolate Quality: The quality of your dark chocolate can make a huge difference in the flavor. Choose a good-quality chocolate bar (around 60-70% cocoa) for a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
This frosted chocolate butter cake recipe is a great way to celebrate any occasion, or simply to treat yourself and your family. Its balance of rich chocolate, buttery cake, and crunchy walnuts creates a dessert that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again!
