Mary Berry Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent chocolate cake, you absolutely need to try Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake recipe!

This cake is a true masterpiece, with a velvety texture that practically melts in your mouth, and a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor that’s perfectly balanced. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something decadent, Mary Berry’s recipe is foolproof and guarantees a showstopper. Plus, the fudge frosting is the cherry on top, making it even more irresistible.

So why not treat yourself to a slice of this dreamy cake?

It’s everything a chocolate lover could ask for!

Mary Berry Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To bake Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake, you’ll need a carefully selected list of ingredients that combine to create the moist, rich, and indulgent texture this cake is known for. The ingredients are fairly straightforward, but each one plays a key role in ensuring the cake turns out perfectly every time.

For The Cake

• Self-raising flour: This is a vital ingredient for giving the cake its light and airy texture. The self-raising flour helps the cake rise beautifully without the need for additional leavening agents like baking powder.

• Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial for giving the cake its rich, chocolatey flavor. Mary Berry’s recipe calls for high-quality cocoa powder, as this ensures the cake has an intense, deep chocolate taste that complements the sweetness of the fudge.

• Caster sugar: This fine sugar dissolves easily into the batter, contributing to the cake’s smooth texture. It also adds sweetness, balancing the richness of the cocoa powder.

• Butter: Softened butter is a must in this recipe, as it helps provide moisture and creates a tender crumb. The butter also contributes to the cake’s rich flavor profile.

• Eggs: Large eggs help bind the ingredients together and give the cake structure. They also help add to the moistness, ensuring that the cake is soft and flavorful.

• Whole milk: The milk is used to provide moisture and also contributes to the cake’s smooth, velvety texture. Whole milk adds richness to the batter, which is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

• Boiling water: This ingredient is a bit unconventional but essential. It helps loosen up the batter, making it easier to mix and pour. The boiling water also activates the cocoa powder, resulting in a more intense chocolate flavor.

For The Fudge Icing

• Dark chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate is used for the icing, providing a deep, luxurious taste that pairs perfectly with the cake’s flavors. Dark chocolate also helps achieve that glossy, fudgy finish.

• Double cream: The heavy cream is used to create a silky-smooth texture for the fudge icing. It provides richness and ensures the icing is glossy and spreadable without being too thick or too runny.

• Butter: Just like in the cake itself, butter is used in the icing to enhance its smooth texture and to add richness. It also helps the icing set beautifully once it’s spread on the cake.

Equipment Needed

When baking Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake, the right equipment makes all the difference. These tools will help you achieve the best possible results and streamline the baking process.

• Two 8-inch round cake tins: These are essential for creating the classic layered cake. Choose tins with removable bases for easier removal of the cakes once baked. You’ll also want to line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth finish.

• Mixing bowls: A large mixing bowl is needed to combine the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, sugar) and another to whisk together the wet ingredients (eggs, milk, melted butter). Make sure they’re big enough to handle the batter comfortably.

• Electric whisk or stand mixer: An electric whisk or stand mixer makes mixing the cake batter effortless. It helps to combine the ingredients evenly, resulting in a smooth batter that’s free of lumps. If you don’t have an electric whisk, a hand whisk can also work, but it might take a little more elbow grease!

• Sieve: A sieve is needed to sift the cocoa powder and flour. Sifting is key to removing any lumps and ensuring the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which will help the cake rise properly.

• Spatula: A rubber or silicone spatula is handy for folding the wet and dry ingredients together, ensuring everything is well-mixed without overworking the batter. It’s also useful for spreading the fudge icing evenly on the cake.

• Heatproof bowl: For melting the chocolate for the fudge icing, you’ll need a heatproof bowl. You can melt the chocolate over a bain-marie (double boiler) or in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it to preserve its glossy finish.

• Cooling rack: Once your cakes are baked, you’ll need a cooling rack to allow them to cool evenly. This prevents the cakes from becoming soggy and ensures they retain their shape as they cool.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake

Making Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake is an enjoyable and relatively simple process. The steps below guide you through the process of creating this decadent dessert, from preparing the cake batter to finishing with the indulgent fudge icing.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (fan) or 180°C (conventional), ensuring it’s at the right temperature before you begin mixing your ingredients.

2. Prepare the Cake Tins: Grease and line two 8-inch round cake tins with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the cakes after baking.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and caster sugar. Sifting ensures there are no lumps, particularly in the cocoa powder, and makes sure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the softened butter, eggs, and whole milk. You can use an electric whisk or stand mixer for this, and mix until the ingredients are well combined.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Be gentle so as not to knock the air out of the batter. Add in the boiling water at this stage, which will thin the batter and create the perfect consistency.

6. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake tins and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for around 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in their tins for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Make the Fudge Icing: While the cakes cool, melt the dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over a bain-marie or in the microwave. Once melted, stir in the double cream to create a smooth, glossy fudge icing.

9. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled, spread a generous amount of fudge icing on the top of one layer. Place the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining icing. Use a spatula to smooth it out and make it as neat or messy as you prefer.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cake is iced, let the fudge set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This cake is perfect for special occasions or as an everyday indulgence.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing them. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle and result in a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake rather than a light and fluffy one.

• Check for Doneness: To check if the cake is done, gently press the top of the cake. It should spring back. Alternatively, insert a skewer into the center – if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

• Ensure the Chocolate Icing is Smooth: When melting the chocolate for the icing, do it slowly over low heat. This ensures the chocolate doesn’t burn and will result in a smooth, glossy finish.

• Chill the Icing for a Neater Finish: If you want a smoother, neater finish on your cake, allow the fudge icing to chill for a few minutes before spreading it over the cake. This helps it set and prevents it from dripping off.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since this is a chocolate cake, using good-quality cocoa powder and chocolate will elevate the flavor and give you a richer, more satisfying taste.

Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake is an iconic dessert that combines deep chocolate flavor with a velvety, moist texture. The simple yet carefully chosen ingredients create a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a cozy afternoon tea. The richness of the fudge icing enhances the cake’s decadent nature, making each bite a chocolate lover’s dream come true.

By following the detailed instructions and expert tips, you can bake a cake that rivals any bakery’s creation. The combination of the cake’s light crumb and the fudgy, glossy icing makes this dessert truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will allow you to create a showstopping cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So grab your apron, get your ingredients ready, and indulge in the ultimate chocolate treat.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake

Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake is a timeless classic, beloved for its rich texture, deep chocolate flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth consistency. But as with many great recipes, there are numerous ways to adapt it to your tastes or to fit certain occasions. Here are some easy and fun recipe variations that can transform this already amazing cake into something even more delightful.

1. Add Coffee for a Deeper Flavor

   One of the best ways to intensify the chocolate flavor in this cake is by adding coffee. Coffee enhances the natural bitterness of the cocoa, deepening the overall flavor profile.

   Simply add 1-2 tablespoons of instant coffee or espresso powder into the batter along with the wet ingredients. The coffee flavor won’t overpower the cake; instead, it will give the chocolate an extra layer of complexity, making it even more indulgent.

2. Infuse with Orange or Lemon Zest

   Citrus pairs beautifully with chocolate, and adding a hint of orange or lemon zest can give your fudge cake a refreshing twist. For a chocolate-orange combination, grate the zest of one large orange and fold it into the cake batter.

   The citrus zest brightens up the dense richness of the cake and creates a lovely contrast. You could even opt for a splash of orange or lemon juice in the frosting to add an extra zing.

3. Make It a Layer Cake

   While Mary Berry’s recipe is often made as a single-layer cake, why not take it to the next level and turn it into a decadent layer cake?

   Bake two separate cakes and stack them with a thick layer of rich chocolate ganache or buttercream in between. This not only makes for a visually striking dessert but also allows for more frosting with every bite, which is always a win in the cake world!

4. Go Nutty with a Nutty Twist

   For a bit of crunch and a nutty depth, try incorporating some chopped nuts into your cake batter. Walnuts, hazelnuts, or pecans all work wonderfully.

   Not only do they add texture, but they complement the chocolate’s richness. You could also sprinkle some crushed nuts on top of the cake for an eye-catching garnish.

5. Make It Gluten-Free

   If you or your guests are gluten-sensitive, it’s easy to adapt Mary Berry’s chocolate cake recipe to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. To make sure the cake stays moist and tender, you might want to add a little extra binding agent, like xanthan gum, and perhaps a tablespoon of ground almonds to add texture.

6. Vegan Fudge Cake

   For those following a vegan lifestyle, the recipe can be modified with some simple swaps. Replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, use non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk, and choose a plant-based butter or oil for the fat. Ensure that the chocolate you use is dairy-free to maintain the cake’s vegan-friendly nature.

7. Add a Salted Caramel Touch

   Another delicious variation is to incorporate salted caramel into your cake. You can either mix some salted caramel into the batter or drizzle it over the top of the finished cake for added richness. The sweet-salty contrast enhances the flavor of the chocolate and adds an indulgent twist that will wow your guests.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Once you’ve baked your perfect chocolate fudge cake, the question inevitably arises: how do you store the leftovers to maintain that deliciously moist texture?

Here are some key tips for keeping your cake fresh for as long as possible.

1. Cool Completely Before Storing

   First and foremost, always allow your cake to cool completely before storing it. If you store it while still warm, moisture will collect inside the storage container, leading to a soggy cake. Once it has cooled to room temperature, it’s safe to wrap it.

2. Wrap It Tightly

   If you have leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps preserve the moisture and keeps it from drying out. You can also place the cake in an airtight container, which will do a similar job of sealing in freshness.

3. Keep It at Room Temperature

   For short-term storage (up to 2-3 days), you can store your cake at room temperature. Just keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. However, if you live in a particularly hot climate or if you’re concerned about it spoiling, it’s best to store it in the fridge.

4. Refrigerate for Longer Freshness

   If you want to keep your chocolate fudge cake fresh for a longer period, refrigerating it is a good option. Cake stored in the fridge can last up to 5-7 days. Just be sure to wrap it well, as the dry air inside a fridge can cause your cake to lose moisture if not sealed properly.

5. Freezing for Future Enjoyment

   The cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, slice the cake into individual portions before freezing, so you can thaw just what you need.

   Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and place the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, simply leave the cake at room temperature for a few hours or place it in the fridge overnight.

What Goes Well With Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake

Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake is a rich, indulgent treat on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as part of a dessert spread or enjoying it on its own, here are some fantastic pairings.

1. Fresh Berries

   Chocolate and berries are a classic pairing. The tartness of fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries balances the richness of the fudge cake perfectly. You can serve the cake with a handful of berries on the side, or even use them as a garnish, lightly dusted with powdered sugar.

2. Whipped Cream

   A dollop of freshly whipped cream is always a crowd-pleaser. The airy, light cream cuts through the dense, fudgy texture of the cake and provides a delicious contrast. For an extra special touch, you could flavor the whipped cream with vanilla or even a little bit of cinnamon or cocoa powder.

3. Vanilla or Chocolate Ice Cream

   A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream complements the cake’s flavors wonderfully. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream melts beautifully against the warm, fudgy cake. For a bit of extra indulgence, you could even drizzle the cake with hot fudge sauce before adding the ice cream.

4. Coffee or Tea

   A strong cup of coffee or a rich pot of tea makes for the perfect beverage pairing with this cake. The bitterness of coffee or the delicate, earthy tones of tea like Earl Grey or chai provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet, intense flavors of the chocolate cake.

5. Salted Caramel Sauce

   If you enjoy a sweet-salty contrast, a drizzle of salted caramel sauce over your slice of cake will elevate it to a whole new level. The salty notes of the caramel create a delightful juxtaposition against the cake’s deep chocolate flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake is a true showstopper, with its rich, fudgy texture and deep, intense chocolate flavor that has made it a favorite in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re looking for ways to adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences, enhance it with complementary flavors, or ensure it stays fresh for days, there are endless possibilities to explore.

Pair it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whatever variations you try, one thing is for sure: this cake is a delicious indulgence that will never fail to impress.

FAQs

What Makes Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake So Special?

Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake stands out due to its rich, indulgent texture and deep chocolate flavor. The recipe uses ingredients like buttermilk and vegetable oil, which contribute to the cake’s moisture, and the fudge icing adds a silky finish. It’s a perfect balance of sweetness and density that ensures a melt-in-the-mouth experience.

Can I Substitute The Buttermilk In The Recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe. This will mimic the acidity and moisture of buttermilk.

How Can I Make The Cake Even More Moist?

To make Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake even more moist, you can add an extra tablespoon of vegetable oil to the batter, or incorporate some sour cream or yogurt into the mixture. Additionally, ensuring you don’t overbake the cake is crucial-keep an eye on it, and remove it when a skewer inserted comes out with a few crumbs attached.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Chocolate For The Fudge Icing?

Yes, you can use any type of chocolate for the fudge icing, but for the best results, Mary Berry recommends using a good-quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (around 70%). If you prefer a sweeter icing, you could opt for milk chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate.

How Do I Ensure The Cake Is Perfectly Cooked?

To ensure your cake is perfectly cooked, it’s important to follow the baking time and temperature as stated in the recipe. However, every oven is different, so start checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I Bake The Cake In Advance And Freeze It?

Yes, you can bake the cake in advance. Allow the cake layers to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

You can freeze the layers for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the layers at room temperature and then frost with the chocolate fudge icing.

Can I Make A Smaller Version Of The Cake?

Yes, you can easily make a smaller version by halving the ingredients and baking the cake in smaller pans. Make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller cakes will bake faster. Keep an eye on them and test with a skewer to ensure they are fully cooked.

What Is The Best Way To Store Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake?

The cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay moist for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it, though it’s best to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Can I Make The Chocolate Fudge Icing Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the chocolate fudge icing in advance. Simply prepare the icing, let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Before using it, gently warm it up and give it a good stir to restore its smooth consistency.

How Do I Decorate The Cake For Special Occasions?

For special occasions, you can decorate Mary Berry’s Super Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake with a variety of toppings such as chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or edible flowers. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra chocolate ganache can also add an elegant touch.