Decadent Mud Cake Recipe
Category: Desserts
Servings: 12 slices
If you’re looking for a truly indulgent dessert that will wow your guests, look no further than this rich and fudgy Mud Cake. Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings, this cake is guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. With its deep chocolate flavor, velvety texture, and optional glossy ganache topping, this Mud Cake is a must-try. The combination of rich dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and a touch of coffee gives the cake its signature intense flavor, making each bite utterly irresistible. Here’s how to create the perfect Mud Cake at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate | 200g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 30g |
| Butter | 250g |
| Granulated sugar | 250g |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Buttermilk | 100ml |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour (00) | 220g |
| Instant coffee powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Heavy cream (for ganache) | 250ml |
| Dark chocolate (for ganache) | 250g |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by roughly chopping the dark chocolate into small chunks. Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it gently over a double boiler. If you don’t have a double boiler, you can use a small saucepan with a heatproof bowl resting on top. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. While the chocolate is melting, melt the butter in a separate saucepan until it’s fully liquid.
Once both the chocolate and butter are melted and well combined, remove them from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it to the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl if you’re using a hand whisk.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
While the chocolate-butter mixture is cooling, sift the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder together into a separate bowl. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well incorporated and free from lumps. Stir the instant coffee powder into the dry ingredients. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, giving the cake a deep, almost espresso-like richness.
Step 3: Combining Wet Ingredients
Once the chocolate-butter mixture has cooled to lukewarm, add the sugar and mix well until it’s fully dissolved. Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Pour in the buttermilk and mix again until the batter is smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Adding the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, a little at a time, stirring gently after each addition. Be sure not to overmix the batter, as this could result in a denser cake. Once everything is combined, you should have a thick, glossy batter.
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) for static heat. Prepare a 22cm (9-inch) round cake pan by greasing it with butter and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and help with easy removal after baking. Pour the prepared batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake toward the end of the baking time. Once baked, allow the Mud Cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Preparing the Ganache (Optional)
While the cake is cooling, prepare the ganache if you want to add a glossy, chocolatey topping. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate. Allow the chocolate to sit for a minute or two before stirring it with a whisk or spoon until completely smooth.
Transfer the ganache to a shallow bowl and let it cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to ensure it thickens to a spreadable consistency. If you want a firmer ganache, you can refrigerate it for a shorter period, stirring occasionally. When the ganache reaches the right consistency, spread it evenly over the cooled Mud Cake using a spatula. You can also pipe some decorative swirls or rosettes on top for an added touch of elegance.
Step 7: Serving
Once the ganache has set, your Mud Cake is ready to be served! Slice it into generous portions and enjoy. This cake is perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. If you prefer, you can serve the Mud Cake on its own without the ganache for a simpler, yet still delicious treat.
Additional Tips
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Make it ahead: This Mud Cake can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more flavorful!
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Variations: If you prefer a lighter cake, you can swap out the buttermilk for regular milk or even a dairy-free alternative. However, for the richest flavor, I recommend sticking with buttermilk.
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Flavor boosters: Consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the ganache to enhance the chocolate’s natural sweetness and create a wonderful contrast in flavors.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to a month. To thaw, simply leave the slices at room temperature for about an hour.
This Mud Cake is a decadent treat that’s perfect for any chocolate lover. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or top it with a smooth, glossy ganache, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and make this mouthwatering dessert today!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 56g |
| Sugars | 38g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
This indulgent Mud Cake recipe provides a rich, satisfying treat while still offering the decadence of real chocolate and a velvety texture. Perfect for all kinds of celebrations, or simply when you’re in the mood for a luxurious dessert!
