Appetizer & Dessert

Chocolate Bundt Cake – Recipes From Chef

Name: Chocolate Bundt Cake – Recipes From Chef
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 14
Ingredients: 3/4 cup sour cream — 175 g, preferably room temperature; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3 large eggs, preferably room temperature; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar — 400 g; 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder — 63 g, not Dutch process; 1 tsp baking soda; 3/4 cup very hot water — 175 ml; 1 3/4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour — 248 g, scoop and level to measure; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 oz. bittersweet chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate

Rosa Crumley August 12, 2025

Servings: 14 Total Time: 1 hr 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Chocolate bundt cake is a masterpiece in its own right, but let’s not forget about the delightful accompaniments that can elevate your dessert experience. Think about pouring a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk alongside a warm slice of cake. The richness of the chocolate pairs perfectly with either.

For a twist, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, can brighten up the presentation and add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

Feeling adventurous? Drizzle some chocolate sauce over your slice. You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts or serve it with a side of tangy citrus fruit salad. Each of these partners can create a unique experience that complements the indulgent nature of chocolate bundt cake. Now, let’s dive into creating this delightful treat.

The Sweet Journey Begins

Making a chocolate bundt cake can feel like embarking on a flavorful adventure. Imagine walking into your kitchen, the air filled with the scent of rich cocoa and melted butter as the aroma wafts around you, teasing your senses. I remember the first time I attempted this recipe; the anticipation and excitement filled me with joy.

Of course, that first attempt was a little scary. I mean, do you remember the first time you made a cake? It can feel like a high-stakes event—overbaking, underbaking, or having the whole thing stick to the pan. But fret not! With this recipe, I promise you’ll bake a masterpiece that’ll have your family and friends singing praises.

What Is Chocolate Bundt Cake?

At its heart, a chocolate bundt cake is a baked cake that captures rich chocolate flavors and presents them beautifully in a signature bundt shape. The cake is moist yet firm, allowing it to hold its shape well. The bundt pan, with its intricate design, gives the cake an impressive appearance.

When you slice into this treat, the velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor greet you with a warm embrace. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with ganache, this cake has roots in classic baking and yet feels modern and exciting.

How Does It Taste?

Mmm, where do I start? The chocolate bundt cake is a perfect balance of sweet and slightly bitter, thanks to unsweetened cocoa powder. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a rich, indulgent flavor. The cake has a dense yet fluffy texture, making it satisfying without being overwhelming.

The melt-in-your-mouth chocolate ganache on top brings a silky finish. This combination creates an experience that practically sings to chocolate lovers everywhere. One bite, and you’re transported to a place of pure cocoa bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this chocolate bundt cake recipe. For starters, it’s straightforward and requires simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

You’ll appreciate how adaptable this recipe is. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a holiday gathering, or just because it is Tuesday, this cake fits every occasion perfectly. Plus, I’ve included strategies for making it gluten-free or dairy-free, ensuring that everyone can relish it. It also keeps well, perfect for those moments when you want to snack later in the week.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s what you’ll need for this chocolate bundt cake:

3/4 cup (175g) sour cream, preferably room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs, preferably room temperature
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
2/3 cup (63g) unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch process)
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 cup (175ml) very hot water
1 3/4 cups (248g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

1/2 cup heavy cream
4 oz. bittersweet chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, generously grease your bundt pan with butter or shortening. Dust it lightly with flour to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. This step is crucial for that perfect cake release!

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, blend the melted butter and granulated sugar together. Then add sour cream, eggs (beaten lightly beforehand), and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Breaking this down into two separate bowls helps ensure that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed before they meet the wet ones.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine the contents of both bowls. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently to combine. This will ensure you don’t over mix, resulting in a denser cake than you want.

Step 5: Add Hot Water

Slowly add the very hot water into your batter. Yes, you heard me right! This step gives the cake that wonderfully moist texture we all crave. Mix until everything is just combined; a few small lumps are okay.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it, starting around the 50-minute mark.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Once the cake is done, allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here; letting it cool properly will keep it from crumbling when you slice.

Step 8: Prepare the Ganache

While waiting for the cake to cool, you can make the ganache. Heat the heavy cream until it’s just simmering, then pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then whisk until smooth. Drizzle this over your cooled cake!

Tips on Making Chocolate Bundt Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients blend better at room temperature, which helps create a smooth batter.
Don’t Open the Oven Too Early: It’s tempting, but resist the urge to peek before the time is up. Doing so can cause the cake to collapse.
Use Quality Chocolate: For the ganache, opt for high-quality chocolate. The taste will elevate your cake immensely.
Allow the Cake to Cool Completely: This prevents the ganache from melting too quickly.
Add a Pinch of Espresso Powder: If you adore chocolate, a teensy pinch of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.

Nutrition Information

One slice of chocolate bundt cake (about 1/12 of the cake) has approximately:

Calories: 375
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fat: 17g
Sugar: 30g

Keep in mind, these values will vary based on the specific ingredients used.

How Do You Store This Chocolate Bundt Cake?

To maintain its freshness, wrap the cake in plastic wrap or cover it with foil before placing it in the fridge. It should last about a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it. To freeze, cut the cake into slices, wrap each piece tightly in plastic, and place it in an airtight bag. Just thaw at room temperature for a few hours when you’re ready to enjoy again!

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Chocolate Bundt Cake?

There are plenty of options if you want to tweak the recipe:

Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream: A healthy swap that adds creaminess and keeps the cake moist.
Coconut Oil for Unsalted Butter: This can add a subtle flavor and make it dairy-free.
Almond Milk for Buttermilk: An option that’s lactose-free, you can make it with almond milk and a quick splash of vinegar.
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: This can replace regular flour if you need a gluten-free alternative.
Honey or Maple Syrup for Granulated Sugar: Sweeteners like these can naturally sweeten the cake while reducing refined sugar.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve reached the end of this chocolate bundt cake journey, I hope you’re excited to embark on this sweet adventure! It’s not just about the cake, after all; it’s about the memories and moments spent sharing it with loved ones. The smiles, laughs, and even the flour-dusted counters will all be part of the story that unfolds in your kitchen.

So gather those ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of chocolate work its magic as you create something truly special. Savor each bite, because life’s too short not to enjoy a delicious slice of chocolate bundt cake!

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Chocolate Bundt Cake – Recipes From Chef

Author: Rosa Crumley Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 25 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 50 mins

Servings: 14 Calories: 375 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Chocolate bundt cake is a masterpiece in its own right, but let's not forget about the delightful accompaniments that can elevate your dessert experience. Think about pouring a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk alongside a warm slice of cake. The richness of the chocolate pairs perfectly with either.