Brownie Cake
A decadent dessert for chocolate lovers, this brownie cake seamlessly combines the richness of a brownie with the fluffiness of a cake. The harmonious blend of textures and flavors makes it the perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in an evening of comfort, this cake is sure to satisfy. Unlike traditional cakes, this brownie cake stands out due to its deep, intense chocolate flavor paired with the luxurious ganache topping. Each bite feels like a celebration of chocolate, with a moist crumb underneath a velvety chocolate finish. It’s more than just a cake it’s a show-stopper at any gathering.
Ingredients Overview
The heart of this cake lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the ultimate balance of moisture, flavor, and texture.
The base begins with two key components: a box of chocolate cake mix (or devil’s food mix) and a box of brownie mix. These pre-mixed bases help in achieving a structured but rich foundation, perfect for balancing the fudgy density of a brownie with the soft crumb of a cake.
To further deepen the chocolate flavor, the addition of cocoa powder elevates the intensity of the batter. It doesn’t just stop at chocolate though mayonnaise might seem unusual in a cake, but its fat content works wonders in keeping the cake moist. Combined with eggs, buttermilk, and oil, these ingredients ensure the cake stays soft while delivering a consistent texture throughout.
Vanilla extract provides a subtle fragrance that offsets the richness of the chocolate, and a pinch of salt brings all the flavors together harmoniously. The ganache, made from semisweet or bittersweet chocolate and cream, is the perfect finishing touch a glossy, silky layer that envelops the cake with every slice.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Success
The key to a successful brownie cake lies in precision and care during each step of the process. From preparing the pan to cooling the cake, every action is essential to achieving the desired outcome.
Start by preparing your 9-inch cake pan. Generously grease the pan with butter or oil and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking. This step is crucial, especially since the brownie cake can be more delicate than your average cake, and you’ll want a clean release.
When mixing the batter, be sure to use a large bowl or stand mixer to incorporate all the ingredients. Whether you use a paddle attachment or a whisk, blend until the batter is uniform and smooth. This ensures that all elements combine thoroughly, leaving no clumps of dry mix behind.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, leveling the batter to ensure an even bake. The baking process should take around 45 to 50 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. You’re looking for a few moist crumbs to cling to it not a completely clean toothpick, as that would indicate overbaking.
Once the cake is done, allow it to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire cooling rack. Cooling is critical here; you don’t want to add the ganache to a warm cake, or it will melt off rather than setting beautifully.
Ganache Mastery: The Perfect Chocolate Topping
Creating the perfect ganache requires patience and attention to detail. The type of chocolate you use will directly impact the flavor and texture of your ganache. Opt for a high-quality semisweet or bittersweet chocolate for a rich, sophisticated flavor.
Heat the cream in a saucepan until it just starts to simmer avoid letting it come to a full boil, as this can cause the cream to scorch and affect the taste. Once the cream is ready, pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit undisturbed. This allows the heat to melt the chocolate gradually.
After a few minutes, gently stir the mixture using a spatula. At first, it may seem as if the chocolate and cream won’t combine, but keep stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool for 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly before pouring it over the cooled cake.
For an even, elegant finish, pour the ganache slowly, starting from the center and working your way outward. Use a spatula to guide the ganache so it cascades down the sides naturally.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
- Adjusting baking time: If you’re using a different pan size, reduce or increase the baking time accordingly. For smaller pans, start checking the cake at the 35-minute mark.
- Preventing sticking: Lining your cake pan with parchment paper is a game-changer, ensuring the cake releases smoothly without breaking apart.
- Making ganache in advance: Ganache can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a good stir.
- Flavor variations: For a creative twist, add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fresh berries to the batter.
- Can I substitute the buttermilk? Yes, you can replace buttermilk with a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- How do I store leftover cake? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it.
- Can I freeze this brownie cake? Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months.
- How do I know when the cake is fully baked? A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, the cake may be overbaked.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The richness of this brownie cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A scoop of ice cream is a classic choice, but not just any flavor will do. Opt for vanilla, salted caramel, or even coffee ice cream to complement the deep chocolate tones.
For a more sophisticated presentation, serve the cake with fresh berries. The tartness of raspberries or strawberries contrasts beautifully with the dense sweetness of the cake. You could also top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added indulgence.
As for beverages, a glass of cold milk is a timeless choice, but for something more refined, consider serving it alongside a strong cup of espresso or a robust red wine. The bold flavors of coffee or wine will enhance the richness of the chocolate.
Conclusion
This brownie cake isn’t just a dessert it’s an experience. The combination of rich chocolate, moist cake, and decadent ganache makes it a crowd-pleaser at any event. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that promises satisfaction. With its flexibility in flavor variations and serving options, this brownie cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Brownie Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1 ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1 ¼ cup oil
- 4 eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 box chocolate or devil’s food cake mix
- 1 box brownie mix
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the ganache
- 8 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate finely chopped
- 8 oz heavy cream
Instructions
To make the cake
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it thoroughly and placing a layer of parchment paper at the bottom for easier release.
- In a large mixing bowl, or using the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine all of the cake ingredients. Blend the mixture thoroughly with a handheld mixer, stand mixer, or whisk until the batter is smooth and well-incorporated.
- Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, leveling it out. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached.
- Once baked, allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let the cake cool completely before adding the ganache.
To make the ganache
- Place the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—avoid boiling. Once the cream reaches a simmer, pour it over the chocolate. Let the mixture sit undisturbed for several minutes, allowing the chocolate to soften.
- Using a spatula, gently stir the chocolate and cream together. At first, it may look like the mixture won’t combine, but keep stirring until it transforms into a smooth, glossy ganache. Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Once the ganache has cooled a bit, slowly pour it over the top of the cooled cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, allowing it to cascade gently down the sides for an elegant finish.