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Fudge Fantasy Layer Cake

Irresistibly Decadent Fudge Fantasy Layer Cake Recipe

A delightful Fudge Fantasy Layer Cake with fudgy layers and glossy ganache, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Layers
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute gluten-free flour blend if needed.
  • 3/4 cup Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder Using natural cocoa will alter the taste.
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar can be an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder Ensure freshness for optimal rise.
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda Ensure freshness for optimal rise.
  • 1 tsp Salt Crucial for elevating dessert flavors.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Substitute with 1 cup of milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Melted butter can add additional flavor.
  • 3 large Large Eggs Vegetable substitutes work for vegan options.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Optional if simplicity is preferred.
  • 1 cup Hot Coffee Can be replaced with hot water if necessary.
For the Fudge Filling
  • 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be used but will be less creamy.
  • 8 oz Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate Choose chocolate based on desired sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Omit additional salt if using salted butter.
For the Buttercream
  • 4 cups Powdered Sugar No alternatives recommended for texture.
  • 1/2 cup Corn Syrup Optional for added shine to the ganache.
For Garnishing
  • Optional Toppings Brownie bites, fudge cubes, chocolate curls, truffles, gold leaf, or sprinkles.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • cake pans
  • Saucepan
  • hand mixer
  • spatula
  • Cooling Rack

Method
 

Prepare Cake Layers
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix in buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and hot coffee until smooth. Divide among pans and bake for 28–35 minutes.
  2. Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Fudge Filling
  1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream, stirring until it simmers. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate and unsalted butter until melted and smooth. Let cool at room temperature until thickened.
Prepare Buttercream
  1. Beat butter in a medium mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until smooth and airy.
Assemble Cake
  1. Once the layers are cool, level the tops if needed. Place the first layer on a serving plate, spread fudge filling on top, add the second layer and repeat. Place the final layer on top and apply a crumb coat of buttercream around the cake.
  2. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to set the layer.
Frost the Cake
  1. Frost the outer layer of the cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing for an even finish. Create swirls or peaks if desired.
Make Ganache Drip
  1. Heat heavy cream over low heat until it simmers. Pour it over chopped chocolate in a bowl, let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Let cool until slightly thickened before drizzling over the cake.
Decorate
  1. Get creative with toppings! Add brownie bites, fudge cubes, chocolate curls, or sprinkles. Slice and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 8IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Always check the expiration dates on baking powder and baking soda for best results. Chill the cake after applying the crumb coat for a clean finish.

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