Prepare for a rich, dark, and utterly chocolatey bliss! This Midnight Fudge Cake is an absolute dream for anyone craving intense chocolate flavor without a fuss. We make this recipe incredibly easy, ensuring a super moist texture and an unforgettable taste that will become your new go-to. Get ready to bake a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes truly decadent.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Midnight Fudge Cake
You’ll adore this rich Midnight Fudge Cake for so many reasons. It delivers on flavor and convenience, making it perfect for every baker.
- Incredibly easy to make: We use convenient box mixes to simplify baking, perfect for busy parents and beginners.
- Deep chocolate flavor: Combining a fudge brownie mix with a triple chocolate cake mix creates an intensely rich, complex taste.
- Irresistibly moist and fudgy: The unique layering ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone loves.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether for a special celebration or a sudden chocolate craving, this cake always impresses.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the flavors with simple additions to suit your preferences.
- Freezer-friendly: Prepare this delicious Midnight Fudge Cake ahead of time and freeze for ultimate convenience.
Ingredients
Creating this amazing Midnight Fudge Cake requires just a few simple items. Gather these essentials to start your baking adventure:
- 1 box (18.25 oz) ultimate fudge brownie mix
- 1 box (15.25 oz) triple chocolate cake mix
- 1 ½ cups water, divided
- ¾ cup vegetable oil, divided
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (12 oz) jar hot fudge topping
Notes & Substitutions
Selecting quality box mixes ensures the best results for your Midnight Fudge Cake. We recommend using the specific flavors listed for optimal taste.
- Box Mix Selection: Use a high-quality ultimate fudge brownie mix and a triple chocolate cake mix for the deepest chocolate flavor. Any reputable brand works well.
- Oil Alternatives: You can substitute vegetable oil with other neutral oils like canola or melted coconut oil. Applesauce is a healthy alternative, but it may slightly alter the texture.
- Egg Temperature: Bring eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps them incorporate better and creates a smoother batter.
- Understanding the science behind baking with room temperature eggs can enhance your results, as they blend more evenly and help batters rise better, according to sources like America’s Test Kitchen.
- Hot Fudge Topping Options: While jarred hot fudge is easiest, you can also use a homemade chocolate ganache for an extra luxurious finish.
Equipment
You don’t need fancy tools to make this fantastic Midnight Fudge Cake. Just grab these common kitchen items:
- Two 9×13 inch baking pans
- Large mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional, a whisk works too)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- Sharp knife for swirling
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your incredibly moist and flavorful Midnight Fudge Cake. These instructions ensure a perfect result every time.
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and flour two 9×13 inch baking pans to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ultimate fudge brownie mix according to package directions. Add half of the water (¾ cup total for two mixes), half of the vegetable oil (⅜ cup total), and two of the large eggs. Mix the ingredients until they are just combined, being careful not to overmix the brownie batter.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a separate large bowl, combine the triple chocolate cake mix according to its package directions. Add the remaining half of the water (¾ cup), remaining half of the vegetable oil (⅜ cup), and the last two large eggs. Mix this until just combined and smooth.
- Layer Batters: Pour half of the prepared brownie batter evenly into each of your two greased and floured 9×13 inch pans. Next, carefully spoon half of the prepared cake batter over the brownie layer in each pan. Try to distribute it evenly.
- Swirl for Marbling: Gently insert a sharp knife or a skewer into the batters. Swirl through the layers to create a beautiful marbled effect in your Midnight Fudge Cake. Do not overmix; just a few gentle swirls are enough.
- Bake Cakes: Place the pans in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Cool Cakes: Remove the pans from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 20 minutes. After this initial cooling, carefully invert them onto wire racks to cool completely. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and retains its shape.
- Heat Fudge Topping: While the cakes cool, prepare your hot fudge topping. Scoop the jarred hot fudge into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it for short intervals, stirring in between, until it becomes warm and easily pourable.
- Drizzle and Serve: Once the Midnight Fudge Cake layers are completely cool, generously drizzle the warm hot fudge topping over both cakes. You can use the entire jar for maximum indulgence. Slice and serve immediately for a truly decadent treat.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve the perfect Midnight Fudge Cake every time with these helpful tips and tricks.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake. Mix wet and dry ingredients just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Proper Pan Prep: Always grease and flour your pans thoroughly. This prevents sticking and ensures your cake releases easily.
- Perfect Swirl: Use a gentle hand when swirling the batters. Over-swirling can muddy the layers, losing the beautiful marbled effect.
- Cooling Completely: Ensure the cakes cool fully on racks before drizzling the hot fudge. Warm cake will melt the fudge, creating a mess rather than a neat topping.
- Heating Fudge: Heat the fudge topping just until pourable, not boiling hot. This makes it easy to drizzle without making it too thin.
- Doneness Test: A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not liquid batter. Over-baking can result in a dry cake.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
Enhance your Midnight Fudge Cake experience with these serving ideas, storage tips, and delicious variations.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve a warm slice of Midnight Fudge Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra treat.
- Dust cooled cake with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
- Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries; their tartness beautifully complements the rich chocolate.
Storage Instructions
- Store the unfrosted or lightly drizzled cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate the covered cake for up to one week.
- To freeze, wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter for added texture.
- Minty Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cake batter, or sprinkle with mini mint chocolate chips.
- Caramel Drizzle: After the hot fudge, add a luxurious swirl of caramel sauce for a delightful flavor pairing.
- Coffee Boost: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder in the water for the cake batter to deepen the chocolate notes.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the brownie mix for a subtle, intriguing heat that complements the chocolate.
Nutrition Information
Please note, the following nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients and typical portion sizes for this Midnight Fudge Cake recipe. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands and exact measurements used. This estimate does not include any additional toppings or serving suggestions.
| Amount Per Serving |
|---|
| Calories: 450 |
| Total Fat: 22g |
| Saturated Fat: 5g |
| Cholesterol: 60mg |
| Sodium: 380mg |
| Total Carbs: 60g |
| Dietary Fiber: 2g |
| Sugars: 40g |
| Protein: 4g |
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them covered. Drizzle with hot fudge just before serving.
How long does Midnight Fudge Cake last?
This delicious chocolate cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week refrigerated when properly stored.
Can I use different size pans?
We recommend two 9×13 inch pans for the best layering and baking time. Using a different size may alter baking time and cake thickness.
Conclusion
This Midnight Fudge Cake truly redefines simple elegance with its rich taste and easy preparation. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone seeking a deeply satisfying dessert that comes together without stress. Sweet Emily promises a memorable chocolate experience, so go ahead and bake this incredible cake.
Your family and friends will thank you for this wonderfully fudgy treat!
Decadent Midnight Fudge Cake Recipe
Equipment
- oven
- 9×13 pans
- Nonstick spray
- Bowls
- knife
- Microwaveable bowl
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box(es) ultimate fudge brownie mix
- 1 box(es) triple chocolate cake mix
- 1 jar(s) hot fudge topping
- 1 1/2 cup(s) water divided
- 3/4 cup(s) vegetable oil divided
- 4 eggs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray two 9×13 inch pans with nonstick spray.
- Prepare each cake mix in separate bowls according to the package directions.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into each prepared pan.
- Top each pan with half of the cake batter, then use a knife to swirl the mixtures for a marbled effect.
- Bake the cakes for 35 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
- Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool for 20 minutes.
- Heat the hot fudge sauce in a microwaveable bowl until it is warm and spreadable, then drizzle your desired amount over the cooled cakes and serve.