Imagine a cake so rich and decadent, it redefines indulgence. The Blackout Cake layers soft, moist chocolate cake with a creamy chocolate pudding filling, all encased in a luscious ganache frosting. The final touch? A blanket of delicate cake crumbs that add a subtle texture and a polished, professional finish.
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this cake delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you longing for another slice of this chocolate masterpiece.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee
Filling:
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups heavy cream
Frosting:
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat buttermilk, canola oil, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined. Slowly mix in hot coffee.
- Divide batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely.
- Prepare filling: Whisk pudding mix and heavy cream until slightly thickened. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare frosting: Microwave chocolate chips, butter, and cream in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Chill for 25–30 minutes until spreadable.
- Assemble the cake: Trim tops of cake layers to level them. Crumble trimmings into fine crumbs. Place one cake layer on a plate and spread with half the filling. Repeat with another layer, topping with the final cake layer.
- Spread frosting over the entire cake. Gently press reserved crumbs into the frosting to coat completely. Slice and serve.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal per slice | Servings: 12
The Decadent Blackout Cake: A Chocolate Lover’s Dream
When it comes to chocolate desserts, few recipes command the attention and admiration of a true chocolate connoisseur quite like the Blackout Cake. This iconic dessert, renowned for its layered decadence and rich flavor profile, is the ultimate indulgence for those who can’t resist the allure of chocolate. Beyond its irresistible taste, the Blackout Cake tells a story of innovation and tradition, making it a must-have in every baker’s repertoire.
The History of the Blackout Cake
The Blackout Cake originated in the mid 20th century in Brooklyn, New York, and was named after the citywide blackout drills conducted during World War II. It was a signature item of Ebinger’s Bakery, a beloved Brooklyn institution. This cake became famous for its deep, dark chocolate layers, pudding filling, and unique coating of cake crumbs that gave it its name. Despite Ebinger’s Bakery closing in the 1970s, the recipe has lived on, becoming a staple dessert for celebrations and special occasions.
What Makes the Blackout Cake Special?
The Blackout Cake is more than just a chocolate cake it’s an experience. Its magic lies in the harmonious combination of layers and textures. The moistness of the cake pairs beautifully with the creamy pudding filling, while the ganache frosting adds a glossy richness that ties everything together. Finally, the delicate crumbs on the surface offer a playful texture and a striking appearance that sets this cake apart.
Here’s what makes each component truly exceptional:
- Moist Chocolate Cake: The foundation of the Blackout Cake is its intensely chocolatey base. Incorporating buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the addition of hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, creating a rich and velvety texture.
- Chocolate Pudding Filling: Unlike traditional buttercream, the Blackout Cake uses a pudding-based filling. This light yet creamy component not only adds depth of flavor but also ensures the cake remains moist and luscious with every bite.
- Ganache Frosting: Made with chocolate and cream, the ganache provides a glossy and luxurious exterior. It adds a silky mouthfeel that complements the other textures beautifully.
- Crumb Coating: The finishing touch is the layer of cake crumbs pressed into the frosting. These crumbs not only provide a unique texture but also enhance the visual appeal of the cake, making it a show-stopper at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love Making the Blackout Cake
For home bakers, the Blackout Cake offers the perfect balance of creativity and technique. While it may seem intricate at first glance, the process of assembling the layers and applying the crumb coating is surprisingly straightforward. Each step brings its own sense of accomplishment, and the final result is a cake that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious.
Here are a few reasons to add the Blackout Cake to your baking rotation:
- Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, this cake is guaranteed to be the star of the show.
- Versatile Presentation: While the crumb coating is classic, you can customize the cake’s appearance with additional garnishes, like chocolate shavings, edible gold dust, or even a drizzle of caramel.
- A Chocolate Lover’s Delight: With three distinct layers of chocolate, this cake satisfies even the most intense chocolate cravings.
Tips for Success
To make the most of your Blackout Cake, consider these expert tips:
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Since chocolate is the star of this cake, using high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Plan Ahead: The cake layers, filling, and frosting all require some cooling or chilling time. Preparing the components in advance can help streamline the assembly process.
- Master the Crumb Coating: To achieve the perfect crumb layer, ensure the cake crumbs are fine and evenly distributed. Gently press them into the frosting for a smooth, polished finish.
- Storage and Serving: The Blackout Cake tastes even better the day after it’s made, as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it in the refrigerator but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste.
Variations and Twists
While the traditional Blackout Cake is a timeless classic, it also lends itself to creative variations. Here are a few ideas to experiment with:
- Add a Flavor Twist: Infuse the pudding filling with a hint of espresso or orange zest for a unique flavor profile.
- Make It Boozy: Add a splash of liqueur, like Baileys or Kahlua, to the ganache for an adult-friendly dessert.
- Try a Vegan Version: Replace dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk and vegan chocolate, to create a vegan-friendly Blackout Cake.
- Incorporate Textural Elements: Add a layer of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt between the layers for an extra dimension of texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
The Blackout Cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. For an elevated presentation, drizzle each slice with a raspberry coulis or salted caramel sauce.
Conclusion
The Blackout Cake is more than just a dessert it’s a celebration of chocolate in its purest form. From its rich history to its impeccable flavor and texture, this cake continues to captivate the hearts (and taste buds) of dessert lovers everywhere. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to indulge, the Blackout Cake promises an unforgettable culinary experience.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on the journey to create this iconic masterpiece. With every bite, you’ll be reminded why the Blackout Cake remains a beloved favorite among dessert enthusiasts.