Brownie Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate chocolate indulgence, you’ve come to the right place! This Brownie Cake Recipe is my go-to for any occasion that calls for something special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight craving or a family gathering that needs a sweet centerpiece, this cake never disappoints. Imagine fudgy brownie layers, luxuriously frosted with whipped chocolate and vanilla cream cheese frosting, topped off with even more brownie chunks. It’s a treat that not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart.

What makes this recipe truly special is its perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture. Every bite feels like a hug from your favorite dessert, making it ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just because you deserve something sweet today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this delicious brownie cake. The steps are straightforward and fun!
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves brownies! This cake is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Delight: Bake it in advance and store it for those unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cream cheese frosting elevates this cake to another level of deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this decadent brownie cake! You’ll find that most of these items are staples in your kitchen, making it easy to get started.

For the Brownie Layers

• 1 1/2 cups (340g) Danish Creamery European Style Unsalted Butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) light brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 6 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (80g) unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled; I use Dutch processed)
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

For the Frosting

• 1 cup (227g) Danish Creamery Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
• 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
• 6 cups (720g) powdered sugar (spooned and leveled)
• Tiny pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup (60mL) heavy whipping cream (room temperature; reserving 1 Tbsp for just the chocolate buttercream)
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled; I used Dutch processed)

Variations

This Brownie Cake Recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Frostings: Experiment with different flavors—like mint or coffee—by adding extracts to your frosting.
• Use Alternative Sweeteners: Swap out sugars for alternatives like coconut sugar if you’re looking for a healthier twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

How to Make Brownie Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 6-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure your brownies come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Then add cocoa powder, sea salt, and flour. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix! This step is crucial because overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of that delightful fudgy texture we crave.

Step 3: Bake Your Brownies

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them—overbaking will turn them dry!

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While your brownies cool, prepare the frosting by beating room-temperature butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by heavy whipping cream, vanilla bean paste, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy—it should be light and airy!

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once the brownie layers are completely cooled, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with remaining frosting. For an extra touch, sprinkle some brownie chunks on top!

This Brownie Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also brings joy into every bite. Enjoy sharing it with friends or savoring it all by yourself—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cake Recipe

Making a perfect brownie cake may seem intimidating, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve that dreamy fudgy texture and rich flavor with ease!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the batter, resulting in an even texture and preventing lumps.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients ensures your brownie cake stays moist and fudgy. Overmixing can lead to a dense, dry cake.

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended bake time. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!

• Let it cool completely before frosting: Allowing your brownie cake to cool fully will prevent the frosting from melting off. This makes for a beautifully layered cake when you slice into it!

• Chill your frosting: For easier spreading, chill your whipped chocolate and vanilla cream cheese frosting slightly before applying it to the cake. This will help maintain its shape and texture.

How to Serve Brownie Cake Recipe

This brownie cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Presenting it well can elevate any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a cozy dessert after dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or strawberries on top adds a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
• Chocolate shavings: Finely grated dark chocolate sprinkled on top gives an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can add a lovely contrast in both color and flavor, making your dessert look extra special.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm slices of brownies, creating a delightful hot-and-cold dessert experience.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free option that complements the richness of the brownie cake while adding a light, airy element.
• Coffee: A robust cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavors and provides a comforting finish to your meal.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness to your dessert table and balances out the richness of the brownie cake.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress friends and family with this delectable brownie cake! Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brownie Cake Recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover brownie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a softer texture, refrigerate it for up to a week.
• For best flavor, allow the cake to come back to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

• If you prefer your brownie cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious dessert.

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder in this Brownie Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While Dutch-processed cocoa gives it a rich flavor, you can use natural unsweetened cocoa powder. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

How should I decorate my Brownie Cake?

You can top your brownie cake with additional chocolate shavings, berries, or even drizzle some melted chocolate. Get creative and make it visually appealing!

Can I modify the Brownie Cake Recipe to be gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. This will allow you to enjoy the same fudgy texture without gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this incredible Brownie Cake Recipe as much as I do! It’s rich, fudgy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and let me know how it turns out—happy baking!