Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake is everything you dream of: rich, dense chocolate cake with surprise ingredients and a to-die-for ganache icing. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from birthday celebrations to casual gatherings. Its unique qualities and delightful flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of cocoa and chocolate chips creates an irresistible chocolate experience.
- Moist Texture: The addition of buttermilk and instant pudding ensures each bite is incredibly moist and tender.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy family dinner, this cake is sure to impress.
- Showstopper Presentation: The rich ganache finish adds a professional touch that will wow your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Baking the Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake requires some essential tools to ensure success. Having the right equipment will make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort, making it easy to achieve a smooth batter without manual whisking.
- Cooling rack: Allows proper air circulation around the cake, preventing sogginess after baking.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 cup baking cocoa (sifted)
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup instant chocolate pudding mix (small box)
- 2 1/4 cups buttermilk
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup baking cocoa (sifted)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream (more or less for consistency)
How to Make Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Sugar and softened butter; beat until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Cake flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and pudding mix until blended.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while alternating with buttermilk:
* Start with one-third of the dry mix.
* Follow with half of the buttermilk.
* Repeat until all ingredients are combined smoothly.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips gently using a rubber spatula. This ensures they are evenly distributed without overmixing.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 9: Prepare Ganache Icing
While cooling, prepare your ganache by combining:
1. Water and butter in a saucepan over low heat until melted.
2. Stir in vanilla and sifted cocoa powder until smooth.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; adjust consistency with heavy cream if needed.
Step 10: Frost the Cake
Once completely cooled, pour ganache over the top of your cake, allowing it to drip down sides if desired. Let set before slicing!
Enjoy your Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with a twist, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of the rich chocolate cake on its own to savor its dense texture and deep flavor.
With Fresh Berries
- Top a slice with an assortment of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast and added color.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create a deliciously creamy complement to the dense cake.
Whipped Cream Delight
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess that balances the rich chocolate.
Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce
- Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the slice before serving.
How to Perfect Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
For those looking to make this cake even more exceptional, here are some tips to ensure perfection every time.
Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps remove lumps and aerates them, resulting in a lighter cake.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake moist and prevent it from becoming tough.
Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Best Side Dishes for Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cake.
Chilled Coconut Whipped Topping: This light topping provides a tropical twist that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent treats echo the cake’s flavor while adding an elegant touch.
Vanilla Custard: A smooth custard adds creaminess and richness, enhancing each bite of cake.
Espresso Coffee: A strong cup of coffee pairs well with chocolate, balancing sweetness with its bold flavor.
Mint Tea: The refreshing taste of mint tea cleanses the palate, making it an excellent choice alongside dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a chocolate cake can be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake.
- Skipping ingredient measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the mixing process. Allow them to reach room temperature before starting your recipe for a smoother batter.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can ruin your cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is correct.
- Neglecting cooling time: Letting your cake cool too quickly can cause it to collapse. Give it ample time in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make sure the cake is completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking of freshness.
Reheating Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds, monitoring closely.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making the Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake.
What makes Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake unique?
This cake stands out due to its rich flavor profile, enhanced by surprise ingredients like pudding mix, which adds moisture and depth.
Can I customize the Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, fruits, or different types of chocolate chips to personalize your cake according to your taste preferences.
How do I know when my Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs attached, your cake is ready!
What should I serve with Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake?
Pair this delicious chocolate cake with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Final Thoughts
The Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake is not only rich and decadent but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake
Indulge in the decadence of our Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake—a rich and moist dessert that promises to delight chocolate lovers everywhere. This cake features a unique blend of cocoa and chocolate chips, creating an irresistible flavor with every bite. Its surprising ingredient, instant pudding mix, guarantees a tender texture, making it perfect for various occasions, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Topped with a luscious ganache icing that adds a professional finish, this cake is truly a showstopper. Whether served plain or adorned with fresh berries and whipped cream, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 cup baking cocoa (sifted)
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup baking cocoa (sifted)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and pudding mix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
- Gently fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before preparing the ganache by melting water and butter together, stirring in cocoa powder and powdered sugar until smooth; adjust consistency as needed with heavy cream.
- Once cooled, frost the cake with ganache.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg