Description
James Martin’s Chocolate Fudge Cake is a classic chocolate layer cake with a moist sponge and a thick, creamy chocolate fudge frosting. It’s rich, sweet, and irresistibly chocolatey, making it a favorite for special occasions and sweet cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Plain flour – 200g, forms the base of the sponge.
- Caster sugar – 200g, adds sweetness.
- Cocoa powder – 50g, for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon, helps the cake rise.
- Bicarbonate of soda – 1 teaspoon, creates a light texture.
- Butter – 100g, softened, add richness.
- Eggs – 2 large, for structure.
- Buttermilk – 200ml, keeps the cake moist.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavor.
- Boiling water – 100ml, makes the batter smooth and thin.
For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- Dark chocolate – 200g, melted, gives a rich, glossy finish.
- Butter – 100g, softened, adds creaminess.
- Icing sugar – 200g, for sweetness.
- Double cream – 100ml, creates a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tins
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease and line two 8-inch round cake tins with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, caster sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk the butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until combined.
- Slowly stir in the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth and slightly thin.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
- Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the icing sugar and melted chocolate, mixing well.
- Stir in the double cream until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
Step 9: Decorate and Serve
- Decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh fruit if desired.
- Slice and serve at room temperature for the best flavor.