Brownie Cake Recipe

If you have a craving for something irresistibly rich and decadently moist, this Brownie Cake Recipe is exactly what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. Combining the fudgy density of brownies with the layered elegance of a cake, this recipe creates a dessert that is both comforting and celebratory. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of buttery chocolate flavor and creamy frosting, making it a delightful centerpiece for any gathering or a well-deserved treat just because.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Brownie Cake Recipe is thoughtfully selected to bring out the best in flavor, texture, and color. From the rich butter to the cocoa powder and cream cheese, each plays a key role in crafting a luscious and tender cake that melts in your mouth.

• 340 grams Danish Creamery European Style Unsalted Butter (melted): This butter adds a velvety richness and helps create that perfectly tender crumb.
• 300 grams granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness and structure to the brownie base.
• 300 grams light brown sugar (lightly packed): Adds a subtle caramel note and moisture that keeps the cake delightfully fudgy.
• 6 large eggs (room temperature): Eggs bind everything and add lift while enhancing moistness.
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract: A warm, aromatic accent that brightens the chocolate flavors.
• 80 grams unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled, dutch processed): Delivers deep chocolate intensity and a beautiful dark color.
• 1 tsp fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s depth.
• 210 grams all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled): Provides structure to hold the fudgy texture just right.
• 227 grams Danish Creamery Unsalted Butter (room temperature): Key for a creamy, smooth frosting that complements the brownie cake perfectly.
• 227 grams cream cheese (room temperature): Adds tang and softness to the frosting, balancing the rich chocolate.
• 720 grams powdered sugar (spooned and leveled): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
• Tiny pinch of salt: Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
• 60 mL heavy whipping cream (room temperature, reserving 1 Tbsp for just the chocolate buttercream): Makes the frosting luxuriously smooth and airy.
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste: Adds a natural vanilla flavor with those beautiful specks for visual appeal.
• 20 grams unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled, dutch processed): Infuses the frosting with rich chocolate goodness.

How to Make Brownie Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter

Begin by melting the European style unsalted butter thoroughly. Once melted, mix in both the granulated and light brown sugars until well combined. The blend of these sugars will ensure a beautifully moist and flavorful brownie base. Next, whisk in the room-temperature eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This careful incorporation is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your batter.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, fine sea salt, and all-purpose flour to ensure there are no lumps and to aerate the mixture. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet batter, being careful not to overmix. This step develops the brownie’s structure without sacrificing its characteristic fudginess.

Step 3: Bake the Brownie Cake Layers

Divide your batter evenly into prepared cake pans lined with parchment paper and bake at the recommended temperature until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures your brownie cake retains its luscious, dense texture without drying out. Allow the layers to cool completely before moving on to frosting.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by creaming together the room-temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth and pale. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and the vanilla bean paste until fluffy. Then, add the cocoa powder along with the heavy cream, reserving 1 tablespoon for the chocolate buttercream, and continue to whip until the frosting achieves a silky, spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Brownie Cake

Place one cooled brownie layer on your serving plate and generously spread a layer of frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with a smooth coating all around the cake. This luscious frosting complements the dense brownie layers perfectly and highlights every bite with creamy chocolate tanginess.

How to Serve Brownie Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your beautiful brownie cake by topping it with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a hint of tartness. A sprinkle of chocolate curls or a dusting of extra cocoa powder can add an elegant finishing touch that makes the presentation festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

This brownie cake is rich enough to stand on its own, but serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small dollop of lightly whipped cream can create a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. Fresh fruit or a drizzle of salted caramel also complement the chocolate nicely without overwhelming the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the brownie cake into rustic wedges or neat squares and serving it on a beautiful wooden board or vintage plate to highlight its homemade charm. For parties, you can cut smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange them alongside espresso shots or dessert wines to create an indulgent tasting experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover brownie cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness and softness. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended, but be sure to bring the cake to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full richness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the brownie cake either whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to regain its soft texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your brownie cake slightly warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the frosting and intensifies the chocolate flavor, making every bite even more comforting and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch processed?

While Dutch processed cocoa powder gives a smoother, less acidic flavor, you can substitute regular cocoa powder if needed. The taste will be a bit sharper but still delicious. Just make sure to adjust the leavening if your recipe includes baking soda.

Is cream cheese necessary in the frosting?

Yes, cream cheese adds a tangy balance to the sweet chocolate buttercream, creating a frosting that isn’t overly sweet and has a lovely silky texture. You can try just buttercream, but the cream cheese really uplifts the overall flavor.

Can I make this Brownie Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture might be slightly different, but the rich chocolate flavor will remain just as wonderful.

How long does this Brownie Cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this brownie cake is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days. The frosting keeps it moist, but over time the texture may become less tender.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes! Feel free to fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or your favorite chocolate chips to add some crunch and texture. Just fold them in at the end of mixing the batter to evenly distribute without weighing it down.

Final Thoughts

This Brownie Cake Recipe is an absolute showstopper whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent at home. The blend of fudgy brownie layers with the rich and tangy chocolate cream cheese frosting creates a dessert experience that’s deeply satisfying and utterly unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor every heavenly bite!

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