Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

This Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is a true delight! It combines rich chocolate flavor with a creamy, tangy filling that makes every bite special. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a regular day, this cake will make any occasion sweeter. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to try, even if you’re a beginner baker!

How to Make Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee (or hot water if preferred)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1 egg (for filling)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped (for ganache)
1 tbsp butter (for ganache)

Directions:

Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, one egg, and vanilla. Beat until creamy and well combined. Set aside.
Make the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Slowly stir in the hot coffee until the batter is thin but uniform.
Assemble: Pour a thin layer of chocolate batter into each pan (about 1/3 of the total). Divide the cream cheese filling evenly between the pans, spooning it gently into the center. Do not spread it to the edges. Pour the remaining chocolate batter on top to cover the filling.
Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean (the center will stay soft). Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the pans.
Ganache (Optional): Heat the cream just to a simmer and pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Stir in butter for extra shine. Pour over the cooled cake and let it set for 15–30 minutes before serving. For best results, chill slightly for clean slices. Enjoy with fresh raspberries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream!

How to Serve Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Slice the cake into pieces and serve it on a nice plate. It goes great with a scoop of ice cream or some fresh berries on the side. This cake is sure to impress your family and friends!

How to Store Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

To store the cake, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well before freezing!

Tips to Make Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Don’t overmix the batter; just mix until combined.
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the ganache for the best finish.

Variation

You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor. If you prefer a different flavor filling, try using a fruit filling instead!

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes, buttermilk gives a slight tang and moisture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar.

Q: Can this cake be made ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the ganache before serving.

Q: What should I serve with this cake?
A: This cake tastes amazing on its own, but you can serve it with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh fruits like raspberries for a nice touch!