The Brownie Cake Recipe is the ultimate dessert for any occasion, featuring fudgy brownies layered with rich chocolate and vanilla cream cheese frosting. This delightful cake is perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. Its unique combination of flavors and textures will impress anyone who takes a bite, making it a must-try recipe.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The rich cocoa and cream cheese frosting create a mouthwatering taste that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or just a cozy night inβthis cake fits every scenario.
- Stunning Presentation: Layered with brownie chunks and frosting, itβs visually appealing and sure to wow your guests.
- Rich Texture: The fudgy brownies paired with creamy frosting provide a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your brownie cake, gather the necessary tools and equipment to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious dessert.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch round cake pans: These provide the perfect shape for your brownie cake, ensuring even baking.
- Electric mixer: A must-have for achieving fluffy cream cheese frosting without straining your arms.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring you mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Cake
- 1 1/2 cups (340g) Danish Creamery European Style Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) light brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 6 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (80g) unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled; I use Dutch processed)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
For the Frosting
- 1 cup (227g) Danish Creamery Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 6 cups (720g) powdered sugar (spooned and leveled)
- tiny pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup (60mL) heavy whipping cream (room temperature; reserving 1 Tbsp for just the chocolate buttercream)
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder (spooned and leveled; I used Dutch processed)
How to Make Brownie Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Mix until well blended.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together cocoa powder, sea salt, and flour until evenly mixed.
2. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl:
1. Beat room-temperature butter until fluffy.
2. Add cream cheese and mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing at low speed.
4. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla bean paste; mix until creamy.
Step 6: Assemble Your Brownie Cake
Once cakes are completely cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
3. Place the second layer on top of the first and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
4. Garnish with extra brownie chunks if desired.
Now enjoy your homemade Brownie Cake Recipe, which is sure to delight friends and family alike!
How to Serve Brownie Cake Recipe
Serving your brownie cake is as important as making it. The right accompaniments can enhance the rich chocolate flavors and create a delightful dessert experience for everyone.
Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy vanilla ice cream complements the fudgy texture of the brownie cake.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocoholics, this option deepens the chocolate flavor and provides a great contrast in temperature.
Fresh Berries
- Raspberries: Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds a pop of color to your plate.
- Strawberries: Sliced strawberries bring freshness and balance to the richness of the brownie cake.
Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy element that pairs beautifully with dense brownie cake.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Sauce Drizzle
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the slice adds even more decadence.
- Caramel Sauce: The sweet, buttery notes of caramel provide a delightful contrast to the intense chocolate taste.
How to Perfect Brownie Cake Recipe
Perfecting your brownie cake requires attention to detail. With these tips, you can ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and butter are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter that bakes evenly.
- Donβt Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tougher texture instead of the desired fudginess.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level flour when measuring to avoid adding too much, which can make your brownies dry.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Let it Cool Completely: Allowing the brownie cake to cool completely before frosting helps prevent melting and ensures neat slices.
Best Side Dishes for Brownie Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your brownie cake can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delightful options that complement its rich flavors.
- Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: A silky smooth dessert that pairs well with the dense brownie cake, offering a light contrast.
- Chocolate Mousse: This airy treat enhances the chocolate experience while providing a different texture.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the brownie cake.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add creaminess and tanginess that harmonizes beautifully with chocolate.
- Coffee or Espresso: A small cup of coffee elevates the chocolate flavors and offers a satisfying end to any meal.
- Nut Brittle: Crunchy nut brittle adds an enjoyable crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft brownie texture.
- Caramelized Bananas: Sweet bananas cooked until caramelized create a warm topping that perfectly complements your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a rich dessert like brownie cake. Here are some common errors to watch out for.
Boldly skip the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing, resulting in a less fudgy texture. Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before starting.
Boldly ignore the measurements: Baking is a science, and accuracy matters. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with ingredients like flour and sugar.
Boldly rush the cooling process: Cutting into your brownie cake too soon can lead to a messy slice. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
Boldly underestimate the importance of mixing: Overmixing or undermixing your batter can affect the final texture. Mix until just combined for that perfect fudgy consistency.
Boldly skip the frosting adjustments: If your frosting is too thick, add a little cream; if itβs too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar. Always adjust to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your brownie cake in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Make sure itβs completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture build-up.
Freezing Brownie Cake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Label each package with the date so you know when to enjoy them by.
Reheating Brownie Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C), place slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per slice.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this brownie cake recipe that might help you out.
What makes this Brownie Cake Recipe so special?
This brownie cake recipe stands out due to its rich chocolate flavor and creamy frosting made from cream cheese, which adds depth and texture.
Can I customize my Brownie Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swirl in caramel for added flavor. Experiment with different toppings based on your preferences!
How do I store my leftover Brownie Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze individual slices for longer storage.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for binding.
Final Thoughts
This brownie cake recipe is not just another dessert; itβs an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and customizable options make it versatile for everyone! Whether youβre serving it at a party or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Donβt hesitate to try it out and make it your own!

Brownie Cake Recipe
- Author: Madison
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Indulge in this exquisite Brownie Cake Recipe that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthday celebrations to cozy nights at home. Each slice offers a delightful contrast of textures, with dense brownie layers complemented by a smooth and creamy frosting. Impress your guests or treat yourself to a slice of this decadent chocolate delight that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups melted unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
- 6 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, blend melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition; stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sea salt, and flour. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- To prepare frosting, beat room-temperature butter until fluffy, add cream cheese until smooth, then gradually mix in powdered sugar. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla bean paste; mix until creamy.
- Once cakes are completely cooled, stack layers with frosting between them and cover the entire cake with remaining frosting.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For an added twist, fold in chocolate chips or nuts into the brownie batter before baking. Experiment with different frostings like white chocolate or berry-flavored varieties for unique flavor profiles.