Brownie Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then this Brownie Cake Recipe will surely do the trick! This delightful cake combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a luscious frosting that makes each bite truly irresistible. It’s perfect for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Trust me, once you taste this cake, you’ll understand why it has become a cherished favorite in my home.

Every time I bake this brownie cake, it brings smiles and happy memories to the table. The combination of chocolate and cream cheese frosting elevates the classic brownie to something truly special. Plus, it’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: The rich flavor of chocolate with creamy frosting makes every bite a treat.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this brownie cake; it’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and freeze for later—just frost when you’re ready to serve!
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or extra chocolate chunks for added flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our delicious brownie cake! Most of them are pantry staples that you can easily find.

For the Brownie Cake

• 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, preferably 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; reserve 1 Tbsp for just the chocolate buttercream)
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled, preferably Dutch processed)

Variations

This brownie cake recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Some Nuts: Chop up some walnuts or pecans and fold them into the batter for an extra crunch.
• Go Fruity: Toss in some raspberries or cherries into the batter before baking for a fruity twist.
• Swirl That Frosting: Create swirls by combining the chocolate buttercream with vanilla buttercream before spreading on the cake.
• Experiment with Extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond or orange extract to give your frosting a unique flavor.

How to Make Brownie Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 6-inch round cake pans so the brownies come out easily after baking. Lining them with parchment paper can also help avoid any sticky situations!

Step 2: Mix Your Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, mix together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Combining these ingredients creates a lovely base that ensures your brownie cake is moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! This step helps ensure you get that perfect fudgy texture we all crave in brownies.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely before moving on to frosting—it’s crucial for achieving that beautiful finish!

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While cooling, prepare your frosting by beating room temperature butter and cream cheese together until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with heavy whipping cream and vanilla bean paste until it reaches your desired consistency. The creamy texture adds an irresistible touch on top of those fudgy layers!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add more brownie chunks if you’d like! Top with the second layer and frost the entire cake beautifully.

And there you have it—a scrumptious Brownie Cake that’s sure to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect brownie cake is all about mastering the details, and I’m here to help you shine in your baking endeavors!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature ensures that they mix more easily, resulting in a smooth batter without lumps. This helps create that rich, fudgy texture we all crave.

• Sift Your Cocoa Powder: Sifting cocoa powder before adding it to your mixture breaks up clumps and incorporates air, leading to a lighter and fluffier cake. Trust me, it makes a difference in the final texture!

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake instead of the desired fudgy consistency. You want that melt-in-your-mouth experience!

• Check Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your brownie cakes a few minutes before the recommended bake time to ensure they don’t overbake. You want that perfect fudgy center!

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing your brownie cake to sit in the fridge for at least an hour after frosting helps set the layers and flavors beautifully, making every slice clean and delicious.

How to Serve Brownie Cake Recipe

When it comes to serving this decadent brownie cake, presentation is key! Set your dessert on a beautiful platter or cake stand, and consider how you want to enhance its appeal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries not only add a pop of color but also introduce a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top adds an elegant touch while amplifying the chocolate flavor for all those chocoholics out there!

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm brownie cake, creating a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a lighter option, whipped coconut cream offers a dairy-free topping that balances the richness of the brownie while adding a hint of tropical flavor.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the dense brownie cake, making each bite feel lighter.
• Espresso or Coffee: A cup of rich espresso or coffee elevates this dessert experience by enhancing the chocolate flavor while providing a nice caffeine kick.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an unforgettable dessert experience! Enjoy every delicious bite of your brownie cake creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brownie Cake Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices of cake any time you crave something sweet. Here’s how to store it properly so you can savor its fudgy goodness later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownie cake to cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, where it will last for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring no air is trapped inside.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a slice of brownie cake on a microwave-safe plate.
• Microwave on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful Brownie Cake Recipe.

Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate in this Brownie Cake Recipe?

Yes! This recipe already utilizes unsweetened cocoa powder, which gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor without needing additional chocolate.

What makes this Brownie Cake Recipe so special?

This recipe combines fudgy brownie layers with a creamy frosting, creating a deliciously rich dessert that is perfect for celebrations or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.

How do I make sure my brownie cake turns out fudgy?

To achieve that ultimate fudginess, be careful not to overbake your brownies. They should still be slightly soft in the center when pulling them out of the oven.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Brownie Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option or use gluten-free flour if needed. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain similar measurements.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Brownie Cake Recipe as much as I do! Its rich flavor and creamy frosting are bound to impress everyone at your next gathering—or just satisfy your own sweet cravings. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!