Brownie Cake Recipe

If you’re longing for a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolatey goodness with a tender crumb, the Brownie Cake is your new best friend. Think fudgy brownie layers stacked and enveloped in luscious, creamy frosting to create a show-stopping cake that’s decadently delicious yet so approachable. This Brownie Cake isn’t just any dessert; it combines the beloved texture of a classic brownie with the elegance and softness of a layered cake, making it a perfect treat for celebrations or whenever you want to indulge your sweet tooth with something extraordinary yet comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Brownie Cake lies in a few key ingredients, each playing an essential role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy butter adding richness, to the cocoa bringing that deep chocolate intensity, every item contributes to the ultimate indulgence you’re about to create.

• Danish Creamery European Style Unsalted Butter (melted): Provides an irresistible richness and buttery flavor that’s key to a moist brownie texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that classic chewy edge on the brownies.
• Light brown sugar: Introduces a subtle caramel note and keeps the brownie tender and moist.
• Large eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients perfectly while giving structure and lift to the batter.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates the chocolate flavor with warm, sweet undertones.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch processed): Imparts an intense chocolate flavor and gives the cake its dark, luscious color.
• Fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies the chocolate’s depth.
• All-purpose flour: Creates the structure that holds the moist, fudgy brownie layers together.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Adds tangy smoothness to the frosting, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting for that melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Heavy whipping cream: Lightens the frosting, making it buttery and spreadable.
• Vanilla bean paste: Infuses the frosting with natural vanilla flavor and aromatic depth.

How to Make Brownie Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line an 11×15-inch sheet pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on full speed, beat the mixture until it becomes super pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes — this airiness is the secret to the tender crumb!

Step 2: Add Cocoa, Salt, and Flour

Now, sift in the cocoa powder and salt, then beat until completely smooth. It’s important to scrape the edges and bottom of your bowl to incorporate everything evenly. Switch to low speed and gently add the flour, just mixing until no streaks remain to avoid overworking the batter, which can make it tough.

Step 3: Bake the Brownie Layers

Spread your batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for about 25 minutes until the edges look set and the center is just firm to the touch but still soft. This ensures a fudgy texture inside. Once done, allow the brownies to cool at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, then chill in the fridge for another 30 to 60 minutes before cutting the cake layers.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

While the brownie layers chill, prepare the frosting by beating the room temperature butter on medium-high speed until it turns pale yellow and fluffy—this creates a light base. Add the cream cheese, mixing until combined. Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar and salt on low speed, then increase to medium-high and beat until smooth and no longer gritty.

Step 5: Divide and Flavor the Frosting

Mix in 3 tablespoons of heavy cream and vanilla bean paste until the frosting is light and creamy. Set aside one-third of this frosting to be transformed into a chocolate buttercream by folding in cocoa powder and the reserved heavy cream—creating a luscious contrast for layering your Brownie Cake.

Step 6: Assemble the Brownie Cake

Using a 6-inch round cutter, cut four circles from the chilled brownie slab, avoiding the chewy edges. Start stacking by placing one brownie layer down, spread a layer of chocolate frosting, then sprinkle brownie chunks on top for a delightful texture surprise. Follow with a layer of vanilla cream cheese frosting, then repeat until all layers are stacked. Chill the cake before frosting the exterior with the remaining vanilla frosting. For the finishing touch, add chocolate frosting dabs to create a soft marbled effect and top with extra brownie chunks for a rustic, inviting look.

How to Serve Brownie Cake

Garnishes

One of the joys of this Brownie Cake is how beautifully it pairs with simple garnishes. Fresh raspberries or chopped toasted nuts add a lovely texture and a burst of color. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar sets off its rich appearance perfectly, inviting everyone to dive in.

Side Dishes

Serve your Brownie Cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to mellow out the intense chocolate richness. A cup of robust coffee or mint tea complements the flavors and makes for a delightful dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting the Brownie Cake into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a dessert platter with alternating dollops of vanilla and chocolate frosting. You can also layer the brownie cake in individual clear glasses with alternating cream and brownie chunks for an impressive parfait-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brownie Cake keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, so you can enjoy a slice whenever cravings strike.

Freezing

You can freeze Brownie Cake by wrapping it securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Frozen, it maintains its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy the Brownie Cake slightly warmed, pop slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This gently melts the frosting and brings out the luscious fudgy texture without drying it out. Be careful not to overheat, as that can make the cake too soft.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch processed?

Absolutely! While Dutch processed cocoa gives a smoother, more mellow chocolate flavor and deeper color, regular cocoa powder will still work and yield a deliciously rich brownie cake with a slightly brighter chocolate note.

Do I have to use cream cheese in the frosting?

Cream cheese adds a lovely tang and creaminess that balances the sweetness. If you prefer, you can swap it for all butter frosting, but the flavor profile will be richer and less tangy.

Can I make the brownie layers ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the brownie layers a day or two in advance. Just keep them wrapped tightly and refrigerated until you’re ready to frost and assemble the cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. The texture may differ slightly, but you’ll still end up with a fudgy, flavorful Brownie Cake.

How do I get neat, even layers when cutting the brownie circles?

Chilling the brownie slab well before cutting is key to clean edges. Use a sharp round cutter or knife, wiping it clean between each cut to avoid pulling crumbs and ensure smooth, even rounds.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Brownie Cake and see just how irresistible fudgy brownies become when they get dressed up in silky frosting and stacked high. It’s a dessert that feels both luxurious and cozy, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a moment of pure happiness. So go ahead, bake this beauty, and savor every luscious bite!

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