There are some bakes that feel like a quiet celebration the moment they come out of the oven, and this Rich Chocolate Cake is firmly in that category. As a home cook, I’ve made plenty of everyday cakes over the years, but this is the one I turn to when I want something that feels indulgent without being fussy. It’s the sort of cake that fills the kitchen with the unmistakable aroma of cocoa and melted chocolate, instantly making the house feel warmer and more welcoming.
What I love most about Rich Chocolate Cake is its depth of flavour. This isn’t a light, airy sponge that politely hints at chocolate; it’s bold, confident and unapologetically chocolatey. Each slice feels satisfyingly substantial, with a moist crumb that almost melts on the tongue. The chocolate ganache topping takes things to another level entirely, adding a glossy, luxurious finish that makes the cake look as good as it tastes. There’s something wonderfully reassuring about spreading ganache over a cake, watching it glide smoothly across the surface and drip ever so slightly down the sides.
As a home cook, I appreciate bakes that don’t require endless decoration to make an impact. Rich Chocolate Cake doesn’t need sprinkles, piping bags or elaborate toppings to shine. Its beauty lies in its simplicity. The ganache alone is enough to give it a professional look, making it suitable for everything from casual family desserts to birthdays and dinner parties. It’s the sort of cake that people notice as soon as it’s placed on the table, often followed by a quiet “ooh” before the first slice is cut.
Another reason Rich Chocolate Cake is such a favourite in my kitchen is how versatile it is. It works just as well served slightly warm as it does at room temperature. On cooler days, a slice alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee feels wonderfully comforting. In warmer weather, pairing it with something cool and creamy turns it into a more refreshing dessert. It’s a cake that adapts easily to the occasion, which is always a bonus when you’re cooking at home.
Texture plays a big part in the appeal of Rich Chocolate Cake too. The contrast between the soft sponge and the smooth, silky ganache makes every bite interesting. There’s a richness there, certainly, but it’s not overwhelming. Instead, it feels balanced, making it surprisingly easy to go back for a second slice. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen guests politely decline at first, only to change their minds moments later.
For me, Rich Chocolate Cake also carries a sense of nostalgia. It’s the kind of cake that reminds me of classic home baking, where flavour mattered more than trends. It doesn’t chase novelty; it simply does chocolate very, very well. That timeless quality is what keeps it in regular rotation in my kitchen, no matter how many new recipes catch my eye.
What to serve with Rich Chocolate Cake
Although Rich Chocolate Cake is perfectly enjoyable on its own, serving it with a few thoughtful accompaniments can really elevate the experience. Here are some simple and delicious ideas:
- Lightly whipped cream to balance the richness
- Vanilla ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold contrast
- Fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries for a hint of sharpness
- A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence
- Crème fraîche or mascarpone for a subtle tang
- A dusting of icing sugar just before serving
- A strong espresso or good-quality coffee on the side
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply because you fancy something chocolatey, Rich Chocolate Cake is one of those reliable, crowd-pleasing bakes that never disappoints. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest ideas are the most satisfying, especially when chocolate is involved.
Rich Chocolate Cake
Equipment
- Whisk or wooden spoon
Ingredients
Cake:
- 200 g plain flour
- 60 g cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 200 g caster sugar
- 2 large eggs free range
- 180 ml whole milk
- 150 ml vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 200 ml hot water
Chocolate Ganache:
- 200 g dark chocolate finely chopped
- 200 ml double cream
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan) or 190°C (conventional). Grease the cake tin and line the base with baking parchment.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda.200 g plain flour, 60 g cocoa powder, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- Stir in the caster sugar until evenly combined.200 g caster sugar
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the dry mixture.2 large eggs, 180 ml whole milk, 150 ml vegetable oil, 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Whisk or stir gently until smooth and well blended.
- Gradually pour in the hot water, mixing as you go. The batter will be quite thin – this is exactly how it should be and helps keep the cake moist.200 ml hot water
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Place the chopped chocolate into a heatproof bowl. Heat the double cream and butter in a saucepan until just beginning to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate.200 g dark chocolate, 200 ml double cream, 1 tbsp butter
- Leave for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to gently spread and drip down the sides. Leave to set slightly before slicing and serving.
20 comments
Anyone who loves chocolate needs to try this cake. Moist, chocolate, amazing taste and chocolaty
This cake tastes as good as it looks, with a smooth finish and rich flavour throughout.
The sponge stays wonderfully moist, even the next day, which is always a sign of a great bake.
Rich, comforting and full of chocolate flavour, this cake is a true home-baking classic.
The ganache topping elevates this cake from simple home baking to something truly special.
A timeless chocolate cake that proves you don’t need complicated decoration for great results.
A classic chocolate cake done exceptionally well, comforting yet impressive enough for guests.
Moist, rich and deeply chocolatey, this cake feels like a proper treat.
A beautifully rich chocolate flavour with a moist sponge and a silky ganache that feels wonderfully indulgent.
Every bite melts in the mouth, making it very hard to stop at just one slice.
The ganache adds just the right amount of indulgence without overwhelming the cake.
The balance between the soft crumb and glossy topping makes this cake very satisfying.
An excellent cake for chocolate lovers, delivering richness without feeling heavy or cloying.
A reliable and crowd-pleasing chocolate cake that works for any occasion.
This Rich Chocolate Cake strikes the perfect balance between deep cocoa flavour and sweetness without being overpowering.
The texture is spot on, soft and tender inside with a glossy ganache that adds real luxury.
Perfect for celebrations or quiet afternoons, this Rich Chocolate Cake never disappoints.
An ideal dessert for chocolate fans who enjoy bold flavour and a soft, moist texture.
The depth of chocolate flavour is fantastic, especially when paired with cream or ice cream.
The simplicity of the cake allows the chocolate flavour to shine beautifully.