Brownie Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress and satisfy any chocolate lover, this Brownie Cake Recipe is just what you need! Imagine rich, fudgy brownies layered with a creamy chocolate and vanilla cream cheese frosting, topped with even more brownie chunks. It’s the perfect treat for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings or even just a cozy night in. This cake is a delightful way to show your loved ones you care and will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire!

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its simplicity. You don’t have to be a baking expert to whip up this indulgent cake. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration or just because you want something sweet after dinner, this Brownie Cake Recipe will make every occasion feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Every bite is filled with deep chocolate goodness that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have this cake ready without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of fudgy brownies and creamy frosting.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for those unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Perfect for birthdays, parties, or simply as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that these pantry staples come together beautifully to create the ultimate brownie cake.

For the Brownie Base:

• 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)
• A 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: Fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for extra gooeyness.
• Swap the Frosting: Try using a different flavor of frosting, like peanut butter or cream cheese frosting.
• Add Berries: Top your finished cake with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.

How to Make Brownie Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step as it ensures that your brownies bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pans

Grease two 6-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent the brownies from sticking when it’s time to serve.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Then add the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. This creates a lovely base that’s rich in flavor!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, sea salt, and any additional dry ingredients you may want to include. Mixing dry ingredients separately prevents clumping later on—no one likes an uneven brownie!

Step 5: Fold It All Together

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Gently fold until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of soft ones.

Step 6: Pour Into Pans

Divide the brownie batter between your prepared pans. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. The even layer helps ensure consistent cooking throughout.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean—remember that some crumbs are okay!

Step 8: Cool Before Frosting

Allow your brownies to cool completely in their pans before removing them. Patience is key here; letting them cool makes sure they hold their shape when frosted.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat together room-temperature butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by heavy whipping cream and vanilla bean paste until well combined for that luscious frosting!

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one brownie layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides liberally—more frosting means more fun!

Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful Brownie Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cake Recipe

Creating the perfect brownie cake is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’re sure to impress everyone at your table!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature allows for better mixing and a smoother batter, which results in an even texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough brownie cake instead of the fudgy goodness we all love.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer. Baking at the correct temperature ensures that your brownie cake cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.
• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing your brownie cake to cool completely before frosting helps the frosting adhere better and prevents it from melting off into a gooey mess.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor! Just remember to adjust baking time as needed if you add extra ingredients.

How to Serve Brownie Cake Recipe

Serving your brownie cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to make it shine on your dessert table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: A sprinkle of fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings: Grating some dark chocolate over the top not only looks elegant but also enhances the chocolate experience.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, top with whipped coconut cream for a light, fluffy addition that complements the dense cake beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside warm brownie cake creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cake, providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
• Coffee or Espresso: Pairing your slice of brownie cake with coffee or espresso brings out the chocolate flavors, making for an indulgent treat.
• Nutty Granola: Serve alongside nutty granola for added crunch. The mix of textures will elevate each bite and make for a delightful combination.

Enjoy crafting this decadent brownie cake recipe, and remember that sharing is caring—so don’t forget to invite friends or family over to indulge in this chocolaty masterpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

This brownie cake recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it over several days, or freeze portions for later indulgence. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownie cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Place the wrapped pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownie cake into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and unwrap them.
• Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For a warm treat, microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, but be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious brownie cake recipe!

Can I use a different type of frosting with this Brownie Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While chocolate and vanilla cream cheese frostings pair beautifully with this brownie cake recipe, you can experiment with other frostings like peanut butter or even a simple whipped cream topping.

How do I ensure my Brownie Cake Recipe turns out fudgy?

To achieve that perfect fudgy texture, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Also, be sure not to bake it too long; it’s better to take it out when a toothpick comes out with slight moist crumbs.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Brownie Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use dairy-free butter alternatives if needed. Adjustments may affect texture, so keep that in mind!

Is this Brownie Cake Recipe suitable for celebrations?

Absolutely! This decadent brownie cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration where chocolate lovers gather.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this scrumptious brownie cake recipe! It’s not just a dessert—it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and delightful textures that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your creations!