It is an inarguable truth: There's nothing more comforting or decadent than biting into a freshly baked slice of chocolate cake.
From the finger-licking good icing to the indulgent and fluffy sponge, a good chocolate cake is a treat that never loses its touch. Maybe, it's because it reminds us afternoon's spent at grandma's house – watching the oven impatiently as the cake rose and sneaking spoons of ganache in-between. Or perhaps, of holiday buffet breakfasts; one of the few times it's acceptable to start the day with cake.
No matter the memory, chocolate cake holds a special place in all our hearts. It makes sense then, to always have a go-to recipe on hand for those moments. Which is why we've rounded up the best chocolate cake recipes the internet has to offer.
Certainly, there's more than a couple of chocolate cake recipes floating on the internet, so narrowing down the best of the best can be an arduous task. Especially when the chocolate cravings are calling. For those among us who thrive on efficiency (and a great taste guarantee), we're sharing with you the recipes we've tried and tested in our kitchens already. For quality control purposes, of course.
1. Martha Stewart's One-Bowl Chocolate Cake
Slap Martha Stewart's name on just about anything and we're sold. But the best part about this chocolate cake recipe is that it's a one-bowl wonder – which is exactly the type of no-fuss situation that we like. It's also a double-layer cake, so you get that richness of an extra-thick slice and more frosting.
2. Nigella Lawson's Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake
If there's anyone who understands decadence, it's Nigella Lawson. Anything this woman does or cooks is with extra TLC – so naturally, her chocolate cake recipe would be one of the best. The fact this is titled as "old fashioned" pulls on our nostalgic heartstrings without skipping a beat. Interestingly, she adds a tablespoon of golden syrup to her icing, which is something we haven't seen often in these recipes. This cake has that melting, smooth lightness that is immensely chocolaty but not at all rich. So, don't be surprised if you make it through more than one piece.
3. Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh's World’s Best Chocolate Cake
This cake carries a major title for a reason. It really is, quite possibly, the world's best chocolate cake. The recipe is based on Goh's famous chocolate cake which she once served at her cafe, Mortar & Pestle, in Melbourne. Now, Ottolenghi serves a smaller "Take-Home Chocolate Cake" version in his shops in London. No matter how we describe it, we will never be able to do it justice. You'll have to bake it to find out.
4. Nora Cooks' Vegan Chocolate Cake
For our vegan friends out there, this is the best it gets. Unlike some other vegan chocolate cake recipes we've tried, this is whole package – delicious icing and a great cake. You only need to look at the texture of the cake and that heavy and thick dollop of cashew vanilla frosting to know it's going to be good.
5. Donna Hay's Chocolate Mud Cake
This particular chocolate cake recipe is one close to my heart. My mum has been baking Donna Hay's chocolate mud cake for as long as I can remember, and it was always a staple at birthday celebrations growing up. The real kicker in this cake is the decadent chocolate ganache that encompasses the cake. Now, when we make it, we also like to add freshly roasted coffee to the cake to help cut through the chocolatey goodness.
6. Flourless Chocolate Cake with Mocha Whipped Cream
You know we had to pull through for our gluten free friends out there. Flourless chocolate cakes have become more than just a health-driven alternative; and are now one of the most in-demand and delicious chocolate cakes on offer. Normally, the cake's soft, fudge-like texture is served sans-icing (it's already pretty indulgent on its own). But, if you're really looking to satisfy your dessert craving, try adding this mocha whipped cream on top. It doesn't get much better than this.
7. Katianna Velos's Bruce Bogtrotter's Chocolate Cake
Velos co-owns Golden Groves organic olive oil, so this recipe is a testament to the winning combo of olive oil and chocolate. Named after the iconic classmate of Matilda in Roald Dahl's classic, this rich and devilishly decadent recipe is a perfect afternoon snack. Or midnight snack. Or breakfast. It's for any occasion really...
8. Julia Busuttil Nishimura's Fallen Chocolate Cake
Cook and author, Julia Busuttil Nishimura (formerly Julia Ostro) is someone we'd trust with our lives – or at least our dinner menus – and this fallen chocolate cake is no exception. At once a light and rich treat, it's a great recipe for novices who are happy to have their cake look purposefully a little bit cracked and misshapen for that rustic, homemade charm.
9. Flour and Stone's Chocolate Manjari Cake
An IYKYK favourite amongst Sydney's baked goods enthusiasts is Woolloomooloo's Flour & Stone, whose signature chocolate Manjari cake, from baker Nadine Ingram, is well worth a visit. Using Valrhona Manjari chocolate from Madagascar, it has a mousse-like consistency that is sure to win hearts and stomachs with every serve.
10. Yolanda Whelan's Vegan and Gluten-Free Flourless Chocolate Cake
Melbourne's Yolanda Whelan is a plant-based chef and baker that keeps things simple. No fancy ingredients. No need to compromise on flavour. If you're baking up a storm for a group with fussy dietaries, this quick and easy chocolate cake should have you covered.
