Brownie Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this Brownie Cake Recipe is just what you need! Imagine sinking your fork into a rich, fudgy brownie that’s perfectly frosted with whipped chocolate and vanilla cream cheese frosting. It’s the ultimate treat to share during family gatherings, celebrations, or even a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become a favorite in your home.

This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party or just because it’s Tuesday, this brownie cake is sure to impress everyone who gets a slice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadently Delicious: The combination of fudgy brownies and creamy frosting creates an irresistible dessert.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Baking together is a great way to create memories with loved ones; kids will love helping out!
• Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this cake in advance and store it for those busy weeknights when you need something sweet.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or sprinkles on top for an extra festive touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making the preparation fun and rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need for your delightful 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 brick cream cheese (room temperature)
• 6 cups (720g) powdered sugar (spooned and leveled)
• 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! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Try Different Frosting: Swap out the chocolate frosting for a classic vanilla buttercream if you prefer.
• Go Fruity: Serve with fresh berries on top for a refreshing twist that balances the richness of the brownies.
• Change Up the Flavor: Add a little espresso powder to the brownie batter for a mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore.

How to Make Brownie Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownie cake bakes evenly. While it heats up, prepare your cake pans by greasing them or lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Then add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Finally, gently fold in flour and salt until just combined. Remember not to overmix—this keeps your brownies nice and fudgy!

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let them cool completely before frosting—this step is crucial! If they are warm, your frosting may melt away into gooey bliss.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your brownies cool, make your frosting by beating room temperature butter and cream cheese together until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar followed by heavy whipping cream and vanilla bean paste. Mix until creamy and smooth. You want it light enough to spread easily but firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer of brownie on a serving platter. Spread an even layer of frosting on top before adding another brownie layer. Repeat as needed! Finish with more frosting on top and sprinkle any additional toppings like nuts or chocolate shavings if desired.

And there you have it—a deliciously rich Brownie Cake ready to impress! Enjoy every bite with friends or family—it’s sure to be gone before you know it!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cake Recipe

Making the perfect brownie cake is all about attention to detail and using the right techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your brownie cake turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and cream cheese to room temperature ensures they incorporate smoothly into your batter, resulting in a richer and creamier texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients keeps your brownie cake fudgy and moist. Overmixing can lead to a dense, dry texture that’s less enjoyable.

• Invest in quality cocoa powder: Using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor of your cake, giving it a deeper richness that you and your guests will love.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since brownies are meant to be fudgy, start checking for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs for that perfect gooey texture.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your brownie cake to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting off, ensuring that you have beautiful layers of frosting on top of your delicious cake.

How to Serve Brownie Cake Recipe

Presenting your brownie cake can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to serve this decadent treat that will impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of strawberries or raspberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the brownie cake.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor while making it visually appealing.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing aroma that complements the richness of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! The creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich brownie cake, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and an airy texture that balances out the density of the chocolate cake.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits can provide a healthy contrast to the indulgent dessert, adding brightness and natural sweetness.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving coffee or espresso alongside enhances the chocolate flavor and provides a warm beverage option for your guests to enjoy with their dessert.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable brownie cake experience! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This brownie cake recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, allowing the flavors to deepen and the cake to stay fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover brownie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator where it will last up to a week.
• If you prefer, you can wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• This will keep the cake fresh for up to 3 months.
• When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer the wrapped cake to the refrigerator overnight to thaw.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• If you’re reheating a whole cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm it in there for about 10-15 minutes.
• Enjoy with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat!

FAQs

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

Can I use another type of flour in this brownie cake recipe?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option. Just make sure it’s a cup-for-cup blend for best results.

How do I ensure my brownie cake stays fudgy?

To achieve that fudgy texture, be careful not to overbake your brownie cake. Keep an eye on it during baking and do the toothpick test—remove it when there are still moist crumbs attached.

Can I make this brownie cake recipe without eggs?

Absolutely! You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) as an egg substitute in this recipe. It will help bind the ingredients together while keeping it plant-based.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a whipped coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative. They both provide a creamy texture without animal-derived ingredients.

How should I serve my brownie cake?

This decadent brownie cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Serve it warm with dairy-free ice cream for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delectable brownie cake recipe! It’s truly special not just because of its rich chocolate flavor but also due to its versatility—you can enjoy it as is or dress it up however you like. I encourage you to dive into this baking adventure; trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!