When the craving for something rich, moist, and decadently chocolatey hits, there’s nothing quite like a slice of Chocolate Butter Cake. This delightful cake is incredibly simple to whip up, thanks to a few key pantry staples, but it delivers a flavor that will impress any chocolate lover. With a tender crumb and a luscious chocolate flavor, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a keeper!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This Chocolate Butter Cake is a reliable recipe that combines the convenience of a box mix with the homemade touch of a few special ingredients. The addition of instant chocolate pudding mix ensures the cake remains moist and tender, while the butter extract adds a subtle depth of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can make for any occasion, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of frostings, from classic chocolate to a fruity White Chocolate Raspberry Cake topping.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create this mouthwatering Chocolate Butter Cake, you’ll need:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15-16 ounces)
- 1 box instant chocolate pudding mix (3.4 ounces)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted Challenge Butter (melted, 113g)
- 1 cup milk (237ml)
- 1 teaspoon butter extract (optional)
- ¼ cup unsalted Challenge Butter (57g)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (5g)
- 2 tablespoons water (29ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients come together to create a cake that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious, making it a staple in your baking repertoire.
Must-Have Equipment
Before we get started, let’s gather the necessary equipment:
- Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: To ensure your batter is smooth and well-mixed.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
- 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for this cake.
- Cooling rack: To cool your cake evenly after baking.
Having these essentials on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
The Method for Chocolate Butter Cake
Now that we have everything ready, let’s bake this delightful Chocolate Butter Cake!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray will help the cake release easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant chocolate pudding mix, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk them together until well combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, butter extract (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Butter Frosting
While the cake is cooling, you can whip up a simple chocolate butter frosting by creaming together the remaining unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and a splash of water until smooth. Add cocoa powder to taste and adjust consistency with more water or sugar as needed.
Ingredient Flex Options
This recipe is versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste:
- Milk: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Butter Extract: Omit if you prefer a more straightforward chocolate flavor.
- Frosting: Try cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter option.
These alternatives allow you to personalize the cake to your liking or accommodate dietary preferences.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
- This Chocolate Butter Cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a few days at room temperature.
- For an added treat, consider layering this cake with a rich ganache or serving it with whipped cream and fresh berries.
- To elevate the flavors, add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter; it enhances the chocolate richness beautifully.
Baking is all about experimentation, so feel free to get creative with your flavor combinations!
Storage & Reheat Guide
To store your Chocolate Butter Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
To reheat, simply slice and microwave for a few seconds until warmed through, or enjoy it cold for a delightful treat!
Quick Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just frost it right before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with Chocolate Butter Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You might also enjoy it alongside a rich Heavenly Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake With A Silky Finish for a dessert spread!
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free chocolate cake mix in place of the regular mix. Be sure to check the pudding mix as well to ensure it’s gluten-free.
How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or increasing the cocoa powder in the frosting.
Similar Recipes
If you’re in the mood for more chocolatey goodness, check out these delightful recipes:
- White Chocolate Raspberry Cake
- Heavenly Raspberry Chocolate Mousse Cake With A Silky Finish
- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip Pasta Bake
See You at the Table
There’s something special about a homemade Chocolate Butter Cake that brings people together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to delight. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to impress with a dessert that’s simple yet spectacular. Happy baking!
Share on Pinterest
Chocolate Butter Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant chocolate pudding mix, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk them together until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, butter extract (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the chocolate butter frosting by creaming together the remaining unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and a splash of water until smooth. Add cocoa powder to taste.
Notes
- This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature for a few days.
- Layer the cake with ganache or serve with whipped cream and berries for an extra treat!
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate richness.
