Description
If you’re searching for the ultimate chocolate fix, the Mount Doom Cake delivers with unapologetic intensity. This decadent dark chocolate layer cake is towering, rich, and slathered in a silky ganache frosting that rivals a truffle in texture. It’s perfect for easy dinner desserts, bold birthday cakes, or when you need a standout treat for your next gathering. Whether you’re looking for a special-occasion showstopper or simply exploring indulgent food ideas, this easy recipe will take your chocolate obsession to volcanic heights. Ideal for those craving a quick breakfast treat or an irresistible late-night snack, Mount Doom Cake fits in every category of comfort and delight.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup strong brewed coffee
16 oz bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), grease three 8-inch cake pans, and line with parchment paper. Dust with cocoa powder.
2. Sift and whisk together flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla until combined.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently.
5. Gradually add the hot coffee and stir until incorporated. Batter will be thin.
6. Divide evenly between pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Toothpick should come out clean.
7. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
8. For ganache: Heat cream until it simmers. Pour over chopped chocolate. Wait 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add butter, vanilla, and salt. Let cool until spreadable.
9. Level cake layers if needed. Spread ganache between layers and over top and sides using an offset spatula.
10. Chill assembled cake for 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
Let the ganache cool properly before frosting to avoid dripping and mess.
Coffee intensifies chocolate flavor—don’t skip it, even if you’re not a coffee drinker.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: dark chocolate cake, easy recipe, chocolate dessert, birthday cake, quick breakfast, dinner ideas, food ideas