Chocolate Truffle Cake

If you’re searching for a cake that’s rich, indulgent, and truly unforgettable, this chocolate truffle cake checks every box. With layers of moist chocolate cake, smooth truffle filling, and a glossy ganache topping, this dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come to life.

Unlike standard chocolate cake recipes, this one brings deep, intense flavor and a soft, luxurious texture thanks to a generous blend of dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and heavy cream. Each bite delivers a perfect balance—light and fluffy cake surrounded by dense, creamy chocolate truffle frosting that melts in your mouth.

It’s ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any moment when you want something sweet that feels special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or making your first layer cake, this recipe guides you step-by-step to a result that looks stunning and tastes even better.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chocolate truffle cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an indulgent treat that delivers comfort, elegance, and flavor all in one slice. Here’s what makes it so special:

1. Deep, rich chocolate flavor
Made with a blend of dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and a smooth truffle filling, this cake brings layers of intense, bittersweet richness that chocolate lovers truly appreciate.

2. Moist and tender texture
Thanks to a perfectly balanced combination of wet ingredients and high-quality cocoa, each cake layer stays soft and moist without becoming heavy or dense.

3. Truffle-like creaminess
The chocolate truffle frosting and ganache topping create a silky contrast to the cake’s crumb, adding luxurious texture and a melt-in-your-mouth finish.

Ingredients

This chocolate truffle cake comes together with simple, quality ingredients that create a rich, moist crumb and velvety truffle filling. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for best results.

A. For the Chocolate Cake Layers

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – for structure and softness
  
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – deepens chocolate flavor
  
• 2 cups granulated sugar – adds balanced sweetness
  
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  
• ½ teaspoon salt
  
• 2 large eggs
  
• 1 cup buttermilk – keeps the cake extra moist
  
• ½ cup vegetable oil – adds richness and moisture
  
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor
  
• 1 cup hot coffee or boiling water – intensifies the chocolate taste and thins the batter for a tender texture
  

B. For the Chocolate Truffle Filling

• 8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  
• ¾ cup heavy cream
  
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – adds shine and smoothness
  

Tip: Use high-quality chocolate for a truly decadent center.

C. For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting

• 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
  
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional) – for extra gloss and smooth texture
  

Optional Toppings

• Chocolate truffles – homemade or store-bought, for garnish
  
• Chocolate shavings or curls – for an elegant finish
  
• Cocoa powder dusting – adds a professional touch
  

Equipment You’ll Need

• Two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans
  
• Parchment paper (for lining the pans)
  
• Mixing bowls
  
• Hand or stand mixer
  
• Whisk and spatula
  
• Wire rack for cooling
  
• Offset spatula for frosting
  

Once you’ve prepped these ingredients, you’re ready to bake a moist chocolate cake that’s layered with smooth truffle ganache and finished with a glossy, rich frosting. Let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions.

Instructions

Follow these clear steps to make a chocolate truffle cake that’s rich, moist, and beautifully layered with creamy ganache and silky truffle filling.

Step 1 – Preheat and prepare the pans

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  
• Grease two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and lightly dust with cocoa powder.
  

Step 2 – Mix the dry ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together:
  
  • Flour
    
  • Cocoa powder
    
  • Sugar
    
  • Baking powder
    
  • Baking soda
    
  • Salt
    
• Set aside.
  

Step 3 – Combine the wet ingredients

• In a separate bowl, beat together:
  
  • Eggs
    
  • Buttermilk
    
  • Oil
    
  • Vanilla extract
    
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir gently until the batter comes together—avoid overmixing.
  

Step 4 – Add the hot coffee

• Stir in 1 cup of hot coffee (or boiling water).
  
• The cake batter will be thin—this creates a soft, moist texture. Mix until smooth but avoid overmixing.
  

Step 5 – Bake the cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking with a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
  
• Allow the cakes to rest in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool fully.
  

Step 6 – Make the truffle filling

• In a small saucepan, heat ¾ cup of cream until just simmering.
  
• Pour it over the chopped semisweet chocolate and butter in a bowl.
  
• Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
  
• Chill for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened but still spreadable.
  

Step 7 – Make the ganache frosting

• Heat 1 cup of cream in a saucepan until steaming.
  
• Pour over chopped dark chocolate (and corn syrup, if using).
  
• Let it sit for a few minutes, then whisk until silky. Cool slightly before using so it thickens enough to frost.
  

Step 8 – Assemble the cake

• Set the first cake layer on a flat serving dish or cake pedestal.
  
• Spread the chocolate truffle filling evenly across the top.
  
• Place the second cake layer on top, gently pressing to secure.
  

Step 9 – Frost and decorate

• Use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate ganache frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
  
• For a smooth finish, work in thin layers and chill briefly between coats.
  
• Finish the cake with a few chocolate truffles, shavings, or a soft sprinkle of cocoa powder.
  

Let the cake chill for 30 minutes before slicing for clean, even cuts. This chocolate truffle cake is now ready to impress—both visually and with every rich bite.

Pro Tips and Variations

Creating a chocolate truffle cake that’s rich, moist, and visually stunning is all about the small details. Here are some helpful tips and flavor variations to ensure success and encourage creativity.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Cake

1. Use room temperature ingredients
This helps everything blend more smoothly, especially when mixing eggs, buttermilk, and oil. Using ingredients straight from the fridge may lead to uneven mixing and inconsistent baking.

2. Don’t skip the parchment paper
Lining the bottom of your cake pans prevents sticking and helps the layers release cleanly every time.

3. Measure your flour correctly
Lightly fill your measuring cup with flour using a spoon, then level the top with a knife for accuracy. Too much flour can make the cake dense instead of tender.

4. Use high-quality chocolate
Since the flavor of this cake relies heavily on chocolate, choose a good-quality dark or semisweet chocolate for the truffle filling and ganache frosting.

5. Chill the layers before frosting
Cold cake is easier to handle and won’t crumble when you spread the chocolate ganache or truffle frosting over the top.

6. Let ganache cool before using
If the ganache is too warm, it will slide off the cake. Let it sit until thick but still spreadable for best results.

Tasty Variations to Try

• Raspberry-Chocolate Truffle Cake
Add a layer of raspberry jam between the cake and truffle filling for a fruity contrast that pairs beautifully with dark chocolate.

• White Chocolate Ganache
Swap the dark chocolate ganache for white chocolate if you want a lighter, sweeter finish and a visual contrast.

• Coffee-Infused Cake
Enhance the depth of flavor by adding 1–2 teaspoons of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha-inspired cake.

• Salted Caramel Drizzle
Top the frosted cake with a swirl of homemade or store-bought salted caramel for extra indulgence.

• Sheet Cake Shortcut
Pour the batter into a 9×13 pan for an easy version. Bake 35–40 minutes and frost directly in the pan for a more casual serving.

• Mini Truffle Cakes
Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual cakes. Top each with a dollop of ganache and a mini chocolate truffle.

With these tips and variations, you can personalize this decadent chocolate truffle cake to suit any occasion—whether you’re aiming for elegant or everyday.

Serving Suggestions

This chocolate truffle cake is rich, elegant, and meant to be enjoyed slowly—one indulgent bite at a time. Whether you’re serving it at a party or as a sweet ending to a quiet dinner, here’s how to make the most of every slice.

Serve at the Right Temperature

• For a creamy texture and smooth ganache, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.
  
• If chilled too long, the ganache may become firm—softening slightly will restore that perfect truffle-like consistency.
  

Pair with Drinks That Balance the Richness

• A cup of espresso or black coffee cuts through the cake’s richness beautifully.
  
• For something more indulgent, try it with a glass of red wine, port, or a dark chocolate stout.
  
• Want a family-friendly option? Serve with cold milk or a mild vanilla tea.
  

Keep It Simple or Dress It Up

• Garnish each slice with a fresh raspberry, a mint leaf, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
  
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast and balance.
  

Make It the Star of the Table

• Serve it on a pedestal or cake stand for a bakery-style presentation.
  
• Add a ring of chocolate truffles or shavings around the base for a finished look that requires no fancy tools.
  

Ideal Occasions for This Cake

• Birthdays – A showstopping centerpiece for chocolate lovers.
  
• Anniversaries and holidays – Rich enough to feel like a special-occasion treat.
  
• Dinner parties – Pairs perfectly with good wine and conversation.
  

However you serve it, this chocolate truffle cake delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation—making any moment feel a little more decadent.

Conclusion

This chocolate truffle cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of deep flavor, smooth texture, and pure indulgence. From the first forkful of moist chocolate cake to the final bite of silky truffle ganache, every layer offers something rich, satisfying, and unforgettable.

What sets this cake apart is its combination of simplicity and elegance. With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a bakery-quality decadent chocolate truffle cake right at home. The result is a cake that’s soft in the center, glossy on the outside, and full of flavor in every bite.

It’s perfect for birthdays, date nights, or whenever you’re craving something sweet that feels extra special. And with flexible options for decorating, flavor variations, and serving styles, you can adapt it to suit any occasion.

Chocolate Truffle Cake

Emily

Indulge in this rich, moist chocolate truffle cake layered with silky ganache and creamy truffle filling—perfect for celebrations or chocolate cravings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chocolate Cake Layers

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – for structure and softness
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – deepens chocolate flavor
• 2 cups granulated sugar – adds balanced sweetness
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk – keeps the cake extra moist
• ½ cup vegetable oil – adds richness and moisture
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor
• 1 cup hot coffee or boiling water – intensifies the chocolate taste and thins the batter for a tender texture

For the Chocolate Truffle Filling

• 8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chopped
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – adds shine and smoothness
• Tip: Use high-quality chocolate for a truly decadent center.

For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting

• 12 ounces dark chocolate chopped
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup optional – for extra gloss and smooth texture

Optional Toppings

• Chocolate truffles – homemade or store-bought for garnish
• Chocolate shavings or curls – for an elegant finish
• Cocoa powder dusting – adds a professional touch

Instructions

 

Step 1 – Preheat and prepare the pans

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and lightly dust with cocoa powder.

Step 2 – Mix the dry ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together:
• Flour
• Cocoa powder
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Set aside.

Step 3 – Combine the wet ingredients

• In a separate bowl, beat together:
• Eggs
• Buttermilk
• Oil
• Vanilla extract
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir gently until the batter comes together—avoid overmixing.

Step 4 – Add the hot coffee

• Stir in 1 cup of hot coffee (or boiling water).
• The cake batter will be thin—this creates a soft, moist texture. Mix until smooth but avoid overmixing.

Step 5 – Bake the cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking with a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
• Allow the cakes to rest in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool fully.

Step 6 – Make the truffle filling

• In a small saucepan, heat ¾ cup of cream until just simmering.
• Pour it over the chopped semisweet chocolate and butter in a bowl.
• Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
• Chill for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened but still spreadable.

Step 7 – Make the ganache frosting

• Heat 1 cup of cream in a saucepan until steaming.
• Pour over chopped dark chocolate (and corn syrup, if using).
• Let it sit for a few minutes, then whisk until silky. Cool slightly before using so it thickens enough to frost.

Step 8 – Assemble the cake

• Set the first cake layer on a flat serving dish or cake pedestal.
• Spread the chocolate truffle filling evenly across the top.
• Place the second cake layer on top, gently pressing to secure.

Step 9 – Frost and decorate

• Use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate ganache frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
• For a smooth finish, work in thin layers and chill briefly between coats.
• Finish the cake with a few chocolate truffles, shavings, or a soft sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Notes

Nutrition Information

• • Calories: 480
  • Total Fat: 30g
    • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
    • Sugar: 34g
    • Fiber: 4g

• Protein: 6g

 

Keyword chocolate truffle cake, decadent chocolate cake, truffle frosting

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