There’s a certain joy that comes from merging two beloved desserts into one indulgent creation. Imagine the rich chocolate sponge layers embracing a silky Nutella filling, all topped off with a luscious mascarpone cream whispering hints of coffee. I first created this Chocolate Tiramisu Cake on a cozy Sunday afternoon, seeking something extraordinary to lift my spirits and satiate my sweet tooth.
The moment I took the first bite, I was transported to a world where decadent chocolate and the classic elegance of tiramisu danced harmoniously on my palate. This cake isn’t just a feast for the eyes; its texture and flavor profile create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply want to treat yourself after a long week, this cake promises to evoke smiles and satisfied sighs. Ready to dive into this delightful fusion? Let’s get baking!
Why is Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake irresistible?
Indulgent flavors meld together in this exquisite dessert that combines the richness of chocolate cake with the creamy delight of tiramisu. Moist layers cooked to perfection hold a velvety Nutella center that surprises with each bite. Unique texture from the mascarpone cream adds a luscious finish that simply melts in your mouth. Easy to make, you can whip it up even on a busy weeknight. Perfect for gatherings, this showstopper will leave your guests talking long after the last crumb is gone!
Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake Ingredients
Discover the delightful components that make up this indulgent Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake!
For the Cake
- Dark Chocolate – Provides rich chocolate flavor and moisture; use chocolate containing no more than 60% cocoa for optimal taste.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds a luxurious richness and moisture to elevate the cake’s texture.
- Caster Sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly while helping to achieve a fluffy rise.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist and adds an extra touch of tenderness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cake’s sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- Medium Eggs – Bind the ingredients together while giving the cake its delightful lift.
- Cocoa Powder – Deepens the chocolate flavor and enriches the cake with dark color.
- Plain/All Purpose Flour – Creates the essential structure that holds the cake layers together.
- Bicarbonate of Soda & Baking Powder – Leavening agents that give the cake its fluffy rise.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and amplifies all the delicious flavors within.
- Boiling Water – Activates the cocoa and coffee flavors, ensuring they bloom fully.
- Instant Coffee Granules – Enhances the coffee notes in the cake without introducing bitterness.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and moisture to create a well-rounded taste.
For the Mascarpone Cream
- Mascarpone – Gives the cream a rich and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with coffee.
- Double/Heavy Cream – Whips up light and airy to complement the mascarpone perfectly.
- Icing/Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the mascarpone cream for a smooth finish.
For the Ganache
- Chopped Chocolate – Provides a rich base for the ganache that will crown your cake.
- Heavy Cream – Melts with the chocolate to create a silky, decadent ganache.
- Golden Syrup – Adds a hint of shine and sweetness, enhancing the overall indulgence.
For the Filling
- Nutella – Infuses the cake with a rich, creamy chocolate-hazelnut flavor that is simply divine!
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake that will leave you and your loved ones craving another slice!
How to Make Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake
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Melt: Begin by microwaving dark chocolate and unsalted butter together in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth, stirring every 20 seconds. This should only take about 1-1.5 minutes.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In the same bowl as the chocolate mixture, whisk together medium eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully blended and creamy.
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Combine Boiling Water: Pour in boiling water and add instant coffee granules, stirring until dissolved. This enhances the cake’s rich coffee flavor.
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Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cocoa powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
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Bake the Layers: Divide the batter evenly between prepared 6″ cake tins and bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for approximately 30 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick— it should come out clean.
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Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare the Ganache: In a bowl, combine chopped chocolate with heated heavy cream. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and add golden syrup. Cool until thickened to your desired pouring consistency.
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Make Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, begin by dissolving instant coffee in a bit of cream, then add mascarpone, heavy cream, and icing sugar. Whip until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, forming soft peaks.
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Assemble the Cake: Trim the tops of cooled cakes to level them. Spread half of the mascarpone cream on the first layer, then add a generous layer of Nutella before placing the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with ganache, then spread the remaining mascarpone cream on top and finish by dusting with cocoa powder.
Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this heavenly chocolate and coffee delight is only half the fun—pairing it with the right accompaniments transforms it into a full experience.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee enhance the chocolate and coffee notes in the cake, making each bite more exquisite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast in texture, helping to temper the cake’s richness while enhancing its flavors.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream perfectly complements the dense chocolate layers, offering a cloud-like balance to your dessert.
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Berries: Fresh raspberries or strawberries not only provide a vibrant pop of color but their tartness cuts through the sweetness, revitalizing your palate with every bite.
Pairing your Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake with these options elevates your dessert experience to a whole new level!
Make Ahead Options
Making the Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake ahead of time is a fantastic way to simplify your baking process! You can prepare the cake layers and the ganache up to 24 hours in advance. Just cool the layers completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The mascarpone cream can also be made a day ahead; simply store it in an airtight container to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cake by layering the mascarpone cream and Nutella between the cake layers, then finish with the ganache. This will ensure your dessert retains its luscious flavor and texture, making it just as delicious even after a day or two!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake
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Cool Chocolate Mixture: Allow your melted chocolate and butter mixture to cool slightly before adding the eggs; otherwise, you risk scrambling them.
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Don’t Overmix: It’s crucial to mix your batter gently once you combine dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light texture you want for a true Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake.
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Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test about a minute before the timer goes off; this ensures you catch the perfect baking moment without drying out the cake.
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Full Cooling Required: Make sure to let the cakes cool completely before assembling. This prevents the ganache and mascarpone cream from melting and blending when layered.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results with your mascarpone cream, let your ingredients reach room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and turns to make your cake uniquely yours!
- Nut-Free: Swap Nutella for a luscious almond or sunflower butter for a creamy filling without the nuts.
- Coffee-Free: For those avoiding caffeine, replace instant coffee granules with a splash of vanilla extract and omit coffee altogether.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for a cake equally satisfying yet safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Cheesecake Layer: Add a layer of cheesecake filling made with cream cheese and sugar for an even richer texture.
- Boozy Twist: Infuse the mascarpone cream with a dash of amaretto or Irish cream liqueur for an adult treat that adds warmth and depth.
- Extra Decadent: Layer in chocolate shavings between the cake layers to boost chocolate intensity and add delightful crunch.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate layers of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing burst of flavor amid the rich chocolate.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the cake batter for a surprising warm undertone that dances on your palate.
With these variations, you can tailor your Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake to suit your mood, dietary needs, or palate preferences—each bite will be a delightful new experience!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake
Fridge: Keep your Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices securely in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. If you prefer it slightly warmed, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Make Ahead: This cake can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving!
Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of dark chocolate should I use for the cake?
For the best flavor and moisture in your Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake, I recommend using dark chocolate that contains no more than 60% cocoa. This allows for a rich chocolate taste without becoming too bitter.
How should I store the Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods.
Can I freeze leftover slices of the Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, first wrap each slice securely in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Your cake can last up to 2 months in the freezer while maintaining its flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge, or warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out denser than expected, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients. Next time, mix gently until just combined and avoid over-baking to maintain the light texture you desire. Remember, a toothpick test can help ensure doneness!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re making this cake for someone with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe contains eggs, dairy, and nuts (from Nutella). For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always check ingredient labels for specific allergens!
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! One of the best things about the Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake is that you can prepare it a day ahead of time. Simply assemble the cake and store it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a richer and more delicious dessert!
Decadent Chocolate Tiramisu Fudge Cake You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by microwaving dark chocolate and unsalted butter together in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth, stirring every 20 seconds. This should only take about 1-1.5 minutes.
- In the same bowl as the chocolate mixture, whisk together medium eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully blended and creamy.
- Pour in boiling water and add instant coffee granules, stirring until dissolved.
- In a separate bowl, sift together plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cocoa powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
- Divide the batter evenly between prepared 6-inch cake tins and bake for approximately 30 minutes.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a bowl, combine chopped chocolate with heated heavy cream. Stir until smooth and add golden syrup. Cool until thickened.
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve instant coffee in a bit of cream, then add mascarpone, heavy cream, and icing sugar. Whip until thick and creamy.
- Trim the tops of cooled cakes to level them. Spread half of the mascarpone cream on the first layer, then add Nutella before placing the second cake layer on top.
- Cover the entire cake with ganache, then spread remaining mascarpone cream on top and dust with cocoa powder.
