This chocolate cake is a rich, moist, and indulgent dessert, made with devil’s food cake mix and instant chocolate pudding for extra depth of flavor. The addition of coffee and sour cream elevates the richness, while the warm ganache frosting adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether served at a gathering or simply as a treat, this cake is sure to please every chocolate lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chocolate cake is effortless to prepare, thanks to the use of a boxed cake mix and pudding mix, yet it delivers a taste and texture that feels entirely homemade. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it, and the chocolate chips provide bursts of melty goodness in every bite. The ganache topping, enriched with walnuts, adds a luxurious finish. It’s perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box food devil’s cake mix
1 box instant chocolate pudding
5 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup oil
1 cup sour cream or buttermilk
3/4 cup coffee
2 cups chocolate Nestle Toll House chips

Ganache Frosting:

1 piece salted butter
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/2 bag powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup walnuts

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In one bowl, combine the dry ingredients: cake mix and pudding mix.
In another bowl, mix together the eggs, vanilla, oil, sour cream (or buttermilk), and coffee.
Combine the dry and wet mixtures and stir until fully incorporated.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cake plate or serving platter.

To make the ganache frosting:

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter.
Stir in the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and walnuts.
Pour the warm ganache over the cake and serve warm, or reheat before serving if prepared ahead.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: Approximately 245 kcal per serving

Variations

Substitute the Nestle chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavor.
Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate richness.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a slight tang and protein boost.
Swap walnuts in the ganache with pecans or leave them out for a nut-free version.
Add a layer of raspberry jam between cake layers for a fruity twist.

storage/reheating

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds to restore the warm, melty texture. The ganache can also be reheated separately and poured freshly over each serving.

FAQs

How can I make this cake without coffee?

You can substitute the coffee with warm water or milk, though coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, but devil’s food cake mix is ideal for its deep chocolate flavor. A chocolate fudge or classic chocolate cake mix can also work.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work best for balance. You may also use milk chocolate if preferred.

Is it necessary to use sour cream?

Sour cream adds moisture and richness. You can substitute it with buttermilk or full-fat yogurt.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

How do I prevent the chocolate chips from sinking?

Toss the chocolate chips in a little flour before folding them into the batter to help them stay evenly distributed.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

This recipe is designed for instant pudding. Homemade pudding may alter the texture and baking consistency.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

What if I don’t have walnuts?

You can omit the walnuts or replace them with another nut like pecans or almonds, or leave the ganache plain.

Is this cake good for special occasions?

Absolutely. The rich texture and warm ganache make it an excellent choice for celebrations, dinner parties, or holidays.

Conclusion

This decadent chocolate cake with ganache frosting is a delightful dessert that combines convenience with gourmet flavor. Easy to make and deeply satisfying, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated for a treat, it never fails to impress.

Decadent Chocolate Cake with Ganache Frosting

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This rich and moist Chocolate Cake recipe, made with Devil’s food cake mix, instant pudding, and a hint of coffee, is a chocolate lover’s dream. Topped with a warm, gooey ganache frosting and crunchy walnuts, it’s the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Easy to bake and irresistibly decadent, this chocolate cake is perfect for celebrations or indulgent evenings at home.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix together the dry ingredients (cake mix and pudding).
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients (eggs, vanilla, oil, sour cream, and coffee).
Combine the dry and wet mixtures and stir until well incorporated.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.

Ganache Frosting:
9. Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
10. Stir in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla, milk, and walnuts.
11. Pour the warm ganache over the cake.
12. Serve warm or reheat in the microwave before serving if needed.

Notes

Sour cream makes the cake extra moist, but buttermilk is a great alternative.
Use freshly brewed coffee for enhanced chocolate flavor.
Optional: Add a pinch of salt to the ganache for a sweet-savory contrast.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking