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James Martin Chocolate Fudge Cake

James Martin Chocolate Fudge Cake recipe

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.