Moist Chocolate Cake With Rich Ganache

Name: Moist Chocolate Cake With Rich Ganache
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I absolutely love baking this Moist Chocolate Cake with Rich Ganache whenever I get the chance. The combination of rich cocoa and delicious chocolate makes for a decadent dessert that feels special. Each bite is a deliciously moist experience made even better with a glossy ganache that adds a touch of elegance. Whether it's a birthday celebration or a simple family dessert night, this cake is sure to impress. I can't wait for you to try it—you'll taste the love in every slice!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:22:10.104Z

When I first embarked on making a cake from scratch, I knew I wanted it to be chocolatey and moist. After several trials, I found that adding a little coffee to the batter enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully. The key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture is ensuring you don’t over-mix the batter. This allows the cake to rise properly and remain light and fluffy.

While perfecting my ganache, I learned that letting it cool a bit before you pour it over the cake grants an incredible glossy finish. It elevates not only the look but also the flavor. Each layer just oozes with that luscious chocolate goodness, making it a joy to serve at any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Mastering the Chocolate Cake Texture

The key to achieving a wonderfully moist chocolate cake lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. When mixing, be sure to combine the wet ingredients well before adding them to the dry ones. This ensures that the sugar dissolves and more moisture is retained. It’s also crucial not to overmix the batter once the boiling water is incorporated; just stir until there are no dry spots. This technique helps maintain a tender crumb, resulting in a cake that melts in your mouth.

Remember, the quality of your cocoa powder impacts the cake's flavor significantly. For a richer taste, opt for Dutch-process cocoa, which lends a smoother and deeper chocolate flavor. Additionally, if you're using a different brand of all-purpose flour, note that protein levels can vary, affecting the cake's rise. Sticking to a consistent flour brand will help ensure uniform results.

Perfecting the Ganache Finish

Ganache can be finicky; achieving the perfect consistency is crucial for a glossy finish. When heating the cream, avoid bringing it to a full boil; simmering it until you see steam rising is sufficient. This ensures that your chocolate melts gently, maintaining a smooth texture without becoming grainy. If your ganache does seize up, gently reheating with a small splash of cream while stirring can help smooth it out before pouring it over the cake.

As you assemble your cake, let the first layer of ganache sit briefly before adding the second layer. This helps create a barrier that prevents the ganache from sliding off. I like to gently tap the cake on the counter after pouring to encourage the ganache to settle and cover any gaps, ensuring a smooth and beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

To elevate the presentation of your moist chocolate cake, consider garnishing it with fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, that contrast nicely with the rich chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the sweetness and richness, adding an unexpected depth. For a festive twist, try serving the cake with a scoop of orange or vanilla ice cream to complement the chocolate and citrus notes.

If you're looking to make this cake ahead of time, it stores beautifully! Wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to a month. Make sure they are completely thawed before frosting them with the ganache. Just a few minutes in the microwave will help warm the ganache for easy spreading if it thickens in the fridge.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the most indulgent chocolate cake:

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Make sure to have everything measured out for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Here’s how to bake this delicious cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased round cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Make the Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Pour a layer of ganache over it, letting it drip down the sides. Place the second layer on top and cover with the remaining ganache.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the ganache to set for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve your moist chocolate cake with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries if desired.

Enjoy each mouthful of this decadent delight!

Pro Tips

For an extra moist cake, you can add a splash of coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor. Let your ganache cool slightly before pouring for a smoother finish.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality chocolate is essential for the ganache, as it directly impacts the overall taste. Look for chocolate with a cacao percentage around 60-70% for a balanced flavor that's not overly sweet. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate or add a splash of coffee to the ganache for added depth.

The choice of eggs is also significant—room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter and contribute to a fluffier cake. If you prefer an eggless version, using unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture can be a great substitute, maintaining the cake's moistness.

Common Troubleshooting

If your cake domes in the center, it may be overmixed or the oven temperature could be too high. A properly calibrated oven is essential; using an oven thermometer can help ensure consistent temperatures. For better results, leave the cake in the oven until just set and give it a gentle press to check for firmness.

In the event that your ganache separates while cooling, don’t panic! Simply whisk in a small amount of warm cream or water until you reach the desired consistency. Properly heating your ingredients and allowing them to sit will prevent this issue from occurring, providing a silky finish on your cake.

Scaling and Variations

This recipe is easily scalable; for a more significant celebration, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger sheet pan. Keep in mind that baking time may vary, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center as the time approaches. Also, consider making cupcakes using the same batter for easy serving options at parties.

For a unique flavor twist, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor or a splash of orange liqueur in the ganache for a merry kick. These small adjustments can create a delightful variation that can surprise and please your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cake flour, but the texture may vary.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, the cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding vanilla bean paste or orange zest to the batter for an added flavor twist.