If you’re the kind of person who believes there’s no such thing as too much chocolate, this Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake will be your dream come true. Imagine layers of moist chocolate sponge, rich ganache, creamy mousse, and crunchy toppings — all combining into one show-stopping dessert.
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that deserves something extraordinary, this decadent cake is guaranteed to impress every guest and satisfy the deepest chocolate cravings.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot brewed coffee
For the Chocolate Mousse Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for gloss)
For Decoration (Explosion Topping):
- Crushed chocolate bars
- Chocolate curls or shavings
- Mini truffles or chocolate-coated candies
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Baking time: 30–35 minutes
- Assembly time: 30 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour, 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
- Slowly pour in hot coffee while mixing — the batter will be thin but glossy.
Step 2: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Mousse
- Heat ½ cup of the cream until hot (not boiling) and pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
- Let cool to room temperature, then fold in whipped cream and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Prepare the Ganache
- Heat cream until simmering. Pour over dark chocolate chips and butter.
- Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until silky and smooth. Cool slightly.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the mousse evenly over the surface.
- Top with the second cake layer.
- Pour warm ganache over the top, letting it drip dramatically down the sides.
Step 6: Add the “Explosion”
- While ganache is still soft, decorate with crushed chocolate bars, truffles, and curls for an over-the-top finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.
- Add fresh berries to balance the richness.
- For a festive touch, drizzle caramel or peanut butter sauce before serving.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/12 of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 6 grams |
| Total Fat | 30 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 60 grams |
| Sugars | 42 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 290 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and a deep cocoa flavor.
- Buttermilk helps create a moist crumb and adds subtle tang.
- Coffee enhances chocolate intensity without tasting like coffee.
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Tips for Success
- Ensure cakes are completely cool before assembling to avoid melting the mousse.
- For extra depth, add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter.
- Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing for clean, defined layers.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days — the flavor actually improves overnight.
This Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake isn’t just dessert — it’s an experience. Every bite delivers layers of moist cake, rich mousse, and glossy ganache that melt together perfectly. Whether you’re celebrating or simply craving chocolate in its most indulgent form, this cake is guaranteed to steal the spotlight and leave everyone asking for seconds.