As I was savoring my first bite of this rich, fudgy Death By Chocolate Cake, I couldn’t help but recall the glee on my friends’ faces when I surprised them with it at last weekend’s gathering. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience—layers of super moist chocolate cake slathered with velvety chocolate buttercream and a glossy ganache that rivals any pastry shop’s finest. The beauty of this indulgent treat lies in its simplicity; it starts with an easy boxed cake mix, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply need to quell a serious chocolate craving, this cake is a guaranteed showstopper. Are you ready to take your chocolate game to the next level?

Why Is This Cake So Irresistible?

Decadent Layers: Each bite offers layers of rich, moist cake that melt in your mouth, ensuring your chocolate cravings are fully satisfied.

Effortless Elegance: Starting with a boxed cake mix makes this recipe surprisingly simple, allowing even beginner bakers to create a gourmet dessert.

Endless Versatility: Feel free to customize! Add raspberry jam or try white chocolate ganache for a unique twist, just like with my Chocolate Oatmeal Bars.

Impressive Presentation: The glossy ganache and decorative chocolate shavings make this cake a stunning centerpiece that will amaze your guests.

Crowd-Pleasing Delicacy: Perfect for gatherings, this dessert is sure to be a hit at birthday parties or holiday feasts, a true delight for chocolate lovers everywhere!

Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate chocolate experience that complements the richness of this delectable cake.

Death By Chocolate Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Triple Chocolate Cake Mix – Foundation of the cake; a high-quality mix enhances the flavor.
Whole Milk – Provides moisture and richness; can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Unsalted Butter (2 cups) – Adds moisture and richness; margarine or dairy-free butter can work as a substitute.
Eggs (6) – Provides structure and stability; consider using flax eggs as an egg substitute for a different texture.

For the Frosting

Unsalted Butter (1.5 cups) – Essential for a creamy texture; cream cheese can be used for a tangy twist.
Powdered Sugar (3.25 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; brown sugar offers a different flavor but can affect texture.
Cocoa Powder (⅔ cup) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for balance.
Heavy Cream (3-4 tablespoons) – Creates a smooth texture in frosting; can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract (1.5 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla for the best results.

For the Ganache

Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Key for a silky ganache; it can be replaced with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup) – Adds richness to the ganache; dark chocolate can intensify the flavor.

For Decoration

Hershey Chocolate Bar (1 large) – Used for shavings to decorate; milk chocolate or dark chocolate bars can serve as alternatives.

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate Death By Chocolate Cake experience, where each ingredient plays a crucial role in elevating this delightful dessert!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Death By Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray to ensure your Death By Chocolate Cake releases easily after baking. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for extra assurance. Set aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the triple chocolate cake mix, whole milk, softened unsalted butter, and eggs. Use a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well combined. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps and the mixture has a glossy sheen.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, remove from the oven to cool.

Step 4: Cool and Slice
After about 10 minutes, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops, ensuring flat surfaces, and slice each cake round in half to create four layers for your decadent Death By Chocolate Cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
For the frosting, cream together the softened unsalted butter, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low until incorporated, then add enough heavy cream to achieve a spreadable consistency. It should be rich and creamy when done.

Step 6: Make the Ganache
To prepare the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just steaming. Pour the hot cream over the semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for 1 minute. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and shiny. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place the first layer of cake on a serving platter and spread about 1 cup of frosting evenly over the top. Add the second layer and repeat the frosting process for all four layers. The generous frosting will not only add flavor but also keep the cake moist and delicious.

Step 8: Frost and Drizzle
Once all layers are frosted, take the remaining frosting to coat the sides and top of the Death By Chocolate Cake. Use a spatula to create smooth sides, and then drizzle the prepared ganache over the top and gently let it cascade down the sides for that impressive, glossy finish.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve
After the ganache sets for about 10 minutes, decorate the top of your cake with any remaining frosting. For an elegant touch, use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from the Hershey chocolate bar and sprinkle them on top. Slice and serve this indulgent treat to your eager guests!

What to Serve with Death By Chocolate Cake

Imagine a gathering where the air is filled with the rich aroma of chocolate and the laughter of loved ones—creating the perfect dining experience is all in the details.

Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing provides a cool contrast to the cake’s richness, enhancing every decadent bite.
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or raspberries not only add a colorful pop but also bring a tart balance to the cake’s sweetness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream introduces a luscious creaminess, softening the intensity of the chocolate.
Espresso or Coffee: The bold, deep flavors of coffee complement the chocolate perfectly while enhancing its savory notes.
Chocolate Mint Thins: For a refreshing twist, serve mint-infused chocolate candies that elevate each slice with a cool aftertaste.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the cake intensifies the indulgence, creating an unforgettable chocolate experience.
Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, pairs harmoniously, offering an exciting profile alongside the dessert’s richness.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Small bites of cookies offer a delightful texture contrast while continuing the celebration of all things chocolate!

Each of these delightful accompaniments will enhance your Death By Chocolate Cake experience, transforming it into a memorable feast for all!

Death By Chocolate Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own; exciting flavors and textures await!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, and replace unsalted butter with dairy-free butter for a similar texture.
Raspberry Delight: Add a luscious layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers for a delightful burst of fruity flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cake batter before baking for added crunch and rich nutty flavor.
Mint Chocolate Bliss: Incorporate peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing twist that will invigorate your taste buds with every bite.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate in the ganache for a stunning visual and a sweeter note to balance the dark chocolate.
Caramel Layer: Drizzle caramel sauce between the cake layers or over the ganache for an indulgent twist that adds layers of richness.
Coffee Infusion: Add brewed coffee or espresso to the cake batter to deepen the chocolate flavor, creating a mocha-inspired delight.

Don’t forget, you can also explore other chocolate recipes like my Chocolate Lava Molten or a creamy slice of Raspberry Truffle Cake for that perfect sweet ending. Enjoy your baking adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Death By Chocolate Cake

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

Fridge: If you need to store it longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, place it in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. This brings back the fudgy texture of your Death By Chocolate Cake!

Make Ahead Options

These Death By Chocolate Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cakes a day in advance; simply cool them completely and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The frosting can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to assemble, take everything out and let the cakes warm to room temperature before frosting, as this prevents the frosting from cracking. Finish by layering the cakes with frosting and drizzling with ganache, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that tastes just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Death By Chocolate Cake

Cool Completely: Always ensure your cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the layers.
Layering Technique: Use a cake slicer for even layers; this guarantees stability and an impressive presentation that your guests will admire.
Smooth Ganache: When making ganache, pour hot cream over the chocolate chips for a silky texture. Whisk gently to avoid air bubbles for the perfect finish.
Customize Flavor: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts in your frosting, like mint or almond, to elevate your Death By Chocolate Cake experience!
Extra Moisture: For an ultra-moist cake, brush the cake layers with a simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar) after slicing to enhance flavor and texture.

Death By Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cake mix works best for this recipe?
I recommend using a high-quality triple chocolate cake mix for the richest flavor. Look for one that uses natural cocoa powder, as it adds depth to the cake’s taste. If you can find a mix with chocolate chips included, that’s even better!

How should I store the Death By Chocolate Cake?
For optimal freshness, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I freeze Death By Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps each slice delicious. You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight before serving.

What if my cake layers are domed?
If you find that your cake layers are domed after baking, don’t worry! Simply use a serrated knife to gently trim off the domed tops for a flat surface. This ensures even layering and a more polished presentation when you stack the cake.

Is this cake suitable for people with allergies?
This Death By Chocolate Cake contains common allergens like eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using egg substitutes like flax eggs, dairy-free butter, and a gluten-free cake mix. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety!

How can I make this cake more moist?
For an extra moist cake, consider brushing the layers with a simple syrup made of equal parts sugar and water after slicing them. This little trick infuses moisture and boosts the flavor profile of your Death By Chocolate Cake!