One-bowl chocolate fudge cake is a decadent treat that promises to satisfy your chocolate cravings with minimal hassle. This moist and rich cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply when you want to indulge. The best part? It requires only one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!
Why Make This One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake
This one-bowl chocolate fudge cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for beginner bakers or for those looking for a quick dessert solution. Not only does it save you time and dishes, but it also features a velvety texture and a deep chocolate flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Its straightforward ingredients mean you likely already have everything you need in your pantry. You can customize the cake with your favorite frosting or enjoy it plain—either way, you’re in for a delicious treat!
How to Make One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake
Making this cake is as easy as measuring, mixing, and baking. The process starts with gathering all your ingredients in a single bowl, blending them together to create a rich, chocolatey batter. You’ll pour this into a greased pan and let the oven do the rest. Each step is simple, making this recipe accessible for anyone looking to whip up something special without fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the vegetable oil, water, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until well combined and the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve as is or with your favorite frosting.
Nutritional Information
Each slice of this one-bowl chocolate fudge cake (assuming 12 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake
Serve this cake warm for an added touch of decadence, or allow it to cool completely for a more traditional dessert. You can dust it with powdered sugar, drizzle it with chocolate ganache, or top it with whipped cream and berries for extra flair. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it an indulgent dessert on cooler evenings.
How to Store One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake
To store your chocolate fudge cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its freshness, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage—just ensure they are wrapped securely; they will stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months.
Expert Tips for Perfect One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until everything is combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Test your cake for doneness with a toothpick—remove the cake from the oven when it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Delicious Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Nutty Chocolate Fudge Cake: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture.
- Mint Chocolate Fudge: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder?
Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for this recipe to achieve the rich chocolatey flavor without additional sweetness.Can I use oil other than vegetable oil?
Absolutely! You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil, melted coconut oil, or even melted unsalted butter for a slight flavor variation.What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can replace apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or lemon juice; both will react with baking soda to create a light texture.How can I make this cake more chocolatey?
Adding chocolate chips or swapping out some of the water for coffee can enhance the chocolate flavor significantly.Is this cake suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is dairy-free as it does not contain any butter or milk. Just double-check your chocolate frosting or accompaniments for dairy ingredients.How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached but no wet batter.Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as a larger cake may need more time to bake through.What is the best way to frost this cake?
A simple chocolate ganache or whipped cream provides a delightful complement to the fudgy texture of the cake without overpowering it.How do I make sure my cake doesn’t stick to the pan?
Greasing the pan well and using parchment paper are both great strategies to ensure easy release.Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can bake your cake up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This one-bowl chocolate fudge cake is an uncomplicated yet indulgent dessert that everyone will love. With its rich chocolate flavor and easy preparation, it makes a perfect choice for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or variations—this cake is a canvas for your imagination. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy a slice of chocolate heaven. Happy baking!