Moist Chocolate Cake With Rich Ganache

Name: Moist Chocolate Cake With Rich Ganache
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: Whisked Wonders

I can’t express how delightful it is to indulge in this moist chocolate cake, especially with its rich ganache topping. The combination of the soft, fluffy cake and the glossy, decadent ganache creates a luxurious dessert experience. I've played around with various recipes, but this one truly stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness and depth of chocolate flavor. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat after dinner, this cake never fails to impress!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:01:17.178Z

When I first baked this cake, I was amazed at how the ganache poured over the layers created such a beautiful and enticing finish. I learned that using high-quality chocolate for the ganache not only enhances the flavor but also gives it that irresistible sheen. It’s super satisfying to slice into the cake and witness the perfect layering on the first cut!

One trick I discovered is letting the cake cool completely before applying the ganache. This avoids any melting and makes it easier to work with, ensuring each slice looks picture-perfect. I’ve found this small step has a big impact on presentation, making it even more special for gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Irresistibly moist texture that leaves you wanting more
Decadent ganache that adds a rich, chocolatey finish
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this moist chocolate cake plays a vital role in achieving its rich flavor and texture. The combination of all-purpose flour and granulated sugar provides the foundational structure, while cocoa powder introduces the deep chocolate essence that is the star of the show. Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients, contributing to the cake's structure and moistness, while the whole milk and vegetable oil work in tandem to keep the cake soft and tender. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the whole milk with almond or soy milk without compromising the cake's texture significantly.

Baking powder and baking soda act as leavening agents, ensuring that your cake rises properly and has a light, fluffy crumb. It's essential to measure these dry ingredients accurately; too much baking soda can lead to a soapy flavor, while too little may result in a dense cake. Ensure your baking ingredients are fresh for the best results—old leavening agents can lead to disappointing outcomes.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When mixing the batter, it's crucial to combine the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly but not excessively. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and result in a tough cake. Aim to mix until just combined and then fold in the boiling water gently. This helps to create a slightly thinner batter, which aids in the moistness of the finished product. It's also important to check your cakes for doneness with a toothpick; they should come out clean, but be cautious not to overbake them, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Letting the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack prevents them from breaking apart. If you find that your cakes are sticking, run a knife around the edges of the pans to loosen them before inverting. For an even more indulgent experience, consider adding layers of fresh fruit or whipped cream between the cake layers along with the ganache.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a truly moist chocolate cake.

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Ganache

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your moist chocolate cake.

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well blended.

Blend Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, whole milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth. Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin).

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Ganache

For the ganache, heat the cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth, and then incorporate the butter for a glossy finish.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate, spread some ganache on top, then place the second layer on and pour more ganache over the top and sides.

Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt over the ganache before it sets to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This moist chocolate cake can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for special occasions. Once the cakes are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. If freezing, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Just be sure to let the cake layers thaw completely before frosting with ganache for the best texture and flavor.

The ganache can also be prepared in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, gently reheat it in the microwave or over a double boiler until it reaches a pourable consistency. This versatility allows you to enjoy this delectable cake on your own schedule!

Serving Suggestions

For an added touch, serve each slice of your chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with extra ganache or a sprinkle of sea salt. The cold creaminess of the ice cream complements the rich chocolate perfectly, creating an indulgent dessert experience. Alternatively, fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the ganache and bring a pop of color to your presentation.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider sprinkling some flaky sea salt on top of the ganache before it sets for a delightful salty-sweet twist. This simple addition can elevate the flavor profile and impress your guests with a sophisticated finish. Enjoying the cake at room temperature allows the flavors to shine, so try to let it sit for about 30 minutes after refrigeration before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can experiment with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes ahead and freeze them. Just wrap them well, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

→ What if I don’t have boiling water?

You can use hot coffee instead of boiling water, which will enhance the chocolate flavor even further!