Chocolate cake
- Easy
- 1 h 30 min
- Kcal 545
If you're into chocolate, like really into it, the mud cake is something you gotta try. Originating from the Anglosaxon world, this cake is known for its super dense and moist texture. It’s not your typical chocolate cake; instead, it’s loaded with intense chocolate flavor. So so rich. Inside, you’ll find a fudgy and slightly gooey center, while the outside has a tender but firm bite. And listen, thanks to its compact nature, it’s perfect as a standalone treat or a sturdy base for multi-layer cakes decorated with fondant.
The way this chocolate mud cake holds its shape—yeah, it’s a game changer—means you don’t have to worry about layers slipping, even when topped with a thick chocolate ganache. It's a popular choice for dessert or a snack, especially when you crave something really indulgent and chocolatey with your afternoon coffee. Can't go wrong with that.
Here’s the deal, the secret to the best mud cake is in its moist, almost sticky center. By using dark chocolate and the perfect amount of butter, you get a dense chocolate cake that’s never dry. For real. Some folks even add extra ganache between layers for more creamy goodness. And look, this easy mud cake is versatile, suitable for birthdays, celebrations, or just when you want a no-fuss cake that tastes like fudge.
It’s ideal for homemade projects where you can get creative with decorations—it can handle the weight. No matter how you serve it, every bite is a rich, chocolate-packed experience. Whether you prefer a simple homemade mud cake or one decked out with decorations, this fudgy cake is always a hit and brings people together. And the texture? Super super good. Its ability to maintain structure while delivering a deliciously gooey texture is what makes it a beloved choice for any occasion.
To prepare the mud cake, start by coarsely chopping the dark chocolate 1. Melt it in a bain-marie 2 and when it has melted, add the butter in pieces 3 and let it melt.
When the chocolate and butter are well blended, add the vanilla extract 4 and instant coffee 5, then transfer the mixture to a stand mixer (or a bowl) 6.
Let the mixture cool slightly and add the sugar 7 and eggs beaten with a fork 8: turn on the whisk (or an electric mixer) and mix. Add the buttermilk 9 and continue mixing (alternatively, you can use the same amount of low-fat plain yogurt).
Finally, sift the flour directly into the bowl 10 along with the baking powder and cocoa powder 11 and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula to combine the mixture 12.
Butter and line with parchment paper a 9-inch diameter cake pan, then pour the batter evenly 13 14. Bake at 320°F (static oven) for 60 minutes, after which check the doneness with a toothpick. Let the mud cake cool on a wire rack 15.
The mud cake can be served as is or covered with a chocolate ganache: heat the cream in a saucepan and when it almost reaches a boil, turn off the heat, add the chopped dark chocolate, and stir with a whisk to melt the chocolate 16. Pour the ganache into a fairly wide container and place it in the refrigerator to cool, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a 'spreadable' consistency. At this point, spread it on the mud cake and smooth it with a spatula on the surface 17 and the sides 18. If desired, you can also create ganache tufts for decoration. Your mud cake is ready!