Name: Irresistible Brick Street Chocolate Cake for Every Occasion
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract; 4 large Eggs (at room temperature); 2 cups Cake Flour (or all-purpose flour with cornstarch); 3/4 cup Cocoa Powder (sifted); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 package Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix; 1 cup Buttermilk; 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; Fresh Whipped Cream; Vanilla Ice Cream

As I rummaged through my pantry one rainy afternoon, a forgotten treasure caught my eye—a box of chocolate pudding mix. It sparked a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of the rich, fudgy cakes from my childhood. That’s when I decided it was high time to bake my very own Brick Street Chocolate Cake. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s the best chocolate cake recipe that will elevate any occasion! With its moist texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to whip up using everyday ingredients. Plus, the secret twist of pudding mix and buttermilk brings irresistible density to every slice. Whether celebrating a birthday or simply indulging your chocolate cravings, this cake hits the sweet spot every time. Are you ready to embrace the chocolatey goodness and create a masterpiece in your own kitchen?

Why is this cake a showstopper?

Irresistible for any occasion: This Brick Street Chocolate Cake is perfect not just for birthday celebrations but also for holiday feasts or casual gatherings.

Delectably dense: With its fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor, this cake delivers pure indulgence in every bite.

Easy to customize: Feel free to swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for an added depth or even adjust the sweetness to your preference.

Time-saving: Thanks to simple pantry staples and a straightforward process, you can whip this cake together in no time—ideal for busy schedules!

Guaranteed crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves chocolate, and this cake is sure to impress both family and friends—just like the famed Chocolate Eclairs they can’t resist!

Brick Street Chocolate Cake Ingredients

For the Batter
• Granulated Sugar – The sweetness source that helps aerate the batter for that perfect texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor and aroma, making each bite irresistible.
• Large Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; use at room temperature for best results.
• Cake Flour – Produces a light and tender crumb; can substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch.
• Cocoa Powder – This is the primary chocolate flavoring; remember to sift it to avoid clumps!
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors, ensuring a perfect blend.
• Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix – Adds moisture and density to the cake; a homemade dry mix is a great substitute.
• Buttermilk – Contributes to tenderness and moisture, creating that fudgy texture we love.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – These provide pockets of melted chocolate throughout the Brick Street Chocolate Cake, enhancing its richness.

Optional Toppings
• Fresh Whipped Cream – Adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that elevates the dessert experience with creaminess.

With these carefully selected ingredients, your cake will surely become a beloved centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion! Enjoy the journey of baking this Brick Street Chocolate Cake—a true labor of love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brick Street Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your convection oven to 350°F (this recipe will not yield the same results in a traditional oven). This is crucial for ensuring that your Brick Street Chocolate Cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, softened unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You should see a pale color and a light texture that indicates the sugar has aerated the butter well, setting a lovely base for your cake.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Each egg should blend seamlessly into the batter, creating a rich and moist combination that enhances the cake’s density. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for the best results.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually sprinkle in the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and instant chocolate pudding mix, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix gently until just combined. The batter will become thick and luscious, filled with deep chocolate aroma, and avoid overmixing to maintain that fudgy texture we love.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Carefully fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. This will distribute the chocolate evenly throughout the batter. The chocolate chips will create delightful pockets of melted chocolate when baked, adding to the overall indulgence of your Brick Street Chocolate Cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a tube pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking. This step is essential to achieving that beautiful, clean release once your cake is done baking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, filling it only about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in your preheated convection oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a cake tester into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This ensures your Brick Street Chocolate Cake is perfectly baked with a moist interior.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes. This resting time allows the cake to set and firm up a bit, making it easier to transfer to a cooling rack without tearing. After cooling, carefully flip the cake out to let it cool completely.

Expert Tips for Baking Brick Street Chocolate Cake

• Choose the Right Pans: Use a tube pan or bundt pan; ensure it’s well-greased and filled only three-quarters full to prevent overflow.

• Egg Temperature Matters: Always use large eggs at room temperature for the best mix and to achieve that desired density in your Brick Street Chocolate Cake.

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix your batter to keep the cake dense and fudgy; overmixing can incorporate too much air and alter its texture.

• Cooling is Key: Let the cake cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes before transferring to a rack to avoid tearing and ensure a beautifully shaped cake.

• Sift for Perfection: Always sift your cocoa powder and dry ingredients to eliminate clumps, ensuring a smooth and rich batter.

• Customize Your Chocolate: Consider swapping semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer twist in flavor and texture.

Brick Street Chocolate Cake Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe to suit your taste and occasion; the possibilities are delightful!

Dark Chocolate: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for an intense, rich flavor.
Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a splash of vinegar to create a creamy non-dairy alternative. It’ll keep the cake moist and delicious!
Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprisingly delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate. It’s a surprising twist that will keep your guests guessing!
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate fresh raspberries or diced strawberries into the batter for a fruity burst of flavor. The tartness balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Nuts About It: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nuttiness, enhancing the cake’s richness.
Cocoa Powder Swap: For a different chocolate profile, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa in place of regular cocoa powder for a smoother taste.
Sugar Reduction: Try reducing sugar slightly and pairing each slice with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a balanced, less sweet dessert experience.
Layered Delight: Make a layer cake by splitting the batter between two pans, applying your favorite frosting between layers, and on top for a stunning presentation. Consider using chocolate ganache for that luxurious touch, just like in our Chocolate Eclairs Discover!

With these ideas, you can turn your Brick Street Chocolate Cake into your personal masterpiece every time you bake it!

What to Serve with Best-ever Dense Brick Street Chocolate Cake

Indulging in a slice of this rich chocolate delight invites a world of flavor pairings that elevate your dessert experience.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries beautifully balances the cake’s sweetness, offering a refreshing contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a heavenly combination.
Espresso or Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed espresso or coffee enhances the rich chocolate flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy lightness that complements the dense cake texture perfectly.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the cake intensifies its chocolatey goodness, creating an exquisite finishing touch.
Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only brings a pop of color but also adds a burst of freshness that brightens up each bite.

Elevate your dessert moments with these delightful pairings, and let the Brick Street Chocolate Cake shine as the star of your celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Brick Street Chocolate Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. For added convenience, you can also bake the cake and allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply frost with your favorite ganache or icing and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to regain its moistness. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready for any occasion with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Brick Street Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.

Fridge: If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the cake, but it may dry out slightly—consume within 5 days for best results.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the unfrosted Brick Street Chocolate Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, marking the date for reference.

Reheating: To enjoy it again, let the cake thaw in the fridge overnight, and if desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

Brick Street Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you prefer a richer flavor, dark chocolate chips work wonderfully, too! Remember that bittersweet chocolate can also be an option, bringing a more intense chocolate profile to your Brick Street Chocolate Cake.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?
To check if your cake is perfectly baked, insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, then your cake is done! Keep an eye on the time; it usually takes between 60-70 minutes in a convection oven, but it can vary slightly depending on your specific appliance.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it, though I recommend consuming it within 5 days to maintain the best flavor and moisture. Just ensure it’s well covered!

Can I freeze the Brick Street Chocolate Cake? How?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil, to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and you can microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up, getting that freshly baked taste back!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Great question! This recipe uses ingredients like eggs, butter, and buttermilk, which could be problematic for some. You can substitute dairy-free butter and use non-dairy milk with a splash of vinegar as a buttermilk substitute if you have lactose intolerance. For egg alternatives, consider using applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. Always check your specific dietary needs to ensure everyone enjoys this delicious Brick Street Chocolate Cake!