There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of homemade cake, especially when it’s as delightful as this Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake. The moment the rich aroma of cocoa wafts through my kitchen, it feels like a warm hug, bringing back memories of cozy family gatherings and cheerful celebrations. Imagine biting into a cake that melds the fudgy intensity of a brownie with the tender crumb of a pound cake, all topped with a glossy ganache and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt pure bliss!

I stumbled across this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe after a long week, searching for a treat that would elevate my dinner parties without adding stress. Whether it’s a birthday, an intimate gathering, or just a Tuesday craving, this cake delivers. It stays moist for days and is versatile enough to impress anyone from dessert enthusiasts to those who claim they “don’t like chocolate.” Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into creating your next favorite dessert!

Why will you love this Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake?

Simplicity: This delightful dessert is incredibly easy to make, with minimal steps and ingredients, perfect for bakers of all levels.

Over-the-top chocolate flavor: The rich cocoa combined with brewed coffee brings out an intense chocolate experience that you won’t forget.

Moist and tender texture: The unique blend of butter, oil, and sour cream ensures a cake that stays soft and succulent for days.

Impressive presentation: Drizzled with shiny ganache and sprinkled with flaky sea salt, it’s a stunner on any table.

Wide appeal: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or satisfying a weekday craving, this cake is sure to please everyone—yes, even the chocolate skeptics!

Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides the rich chocolate flavor; preferably use Dutch-process for optimal depth.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cake; no substitutions recommended for best results.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to achieve a light texture.
Baking Soda – Adds additional lift and balances acidity in the cocoa.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Melted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; don’t replace with margarine.
Oil – Keeps the cake moist for days; essential, don’t omit or replace.
Sour Cream – Contributes richness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
Eggs – Bind ingredients and add moisture.
Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the chocolate flavor.
Brewing Coffee – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; use brewed coffee for best results.

For the Ganache

Dark Chocolate – Provides a glossy finish and rich flavor for the ganache.
Butter – Helps create a smooth texture in the ganache.
Flaky Sea Salt – For topping; adds contrast to the sweetness of the Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake.

How to Make Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan generously with butter or cooking spray. This ensures an easy release later on!
Whisk together the dry ingredients—cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—in a large bowl until well combined. This step is crucial for even distribution.
Mix the wet ingredients in another bowl by combining melted butter, oil, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth, then add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. This mixture should be creamy and well-blended.
Combine the dry and wet ingredients gradually. Stir in the hot brewed coffee gently, mixing until the batter is smooth and glossy. The warmth of the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor!
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is when your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
Cool the cake in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely; this helps set the texture perfectly.
Prepare the ganache by melting dark chocolate and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the ganache over the cooled cake and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for the finishing touch.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and improve. Simply store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture. If you want, you can also prepare the ganache ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just reheat gently before drizzling over the cake. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice the cake and pour the ganache on top for an indulgent dessert that tastes just as delightful as if it were made fresh that day!

Expert Tips for Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake

Best Cocoa Choice: Use Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor that elevates your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake to new heights.
Avoid Overmixing: Combine wet and dry ingredients gently; overmixing can result in a dense cake. Aim for a smooth batter without lumps.
Cooling Time Matters: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes to prevent it from breaking apart during removal; patience is key!
Perfect Ganache Consistency: Allow the ganache to cool slightly before drizzling for a smooth and glossy finish that beautifully complements the cake.
Moisture Maintenance: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake fresh and moist for several days.

What to Serve with Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake?

Imagine the delightful spread that will complement every mouthwatering slice of cake.

Whipped Cream: Adds a light, airy texture that balances the rich fudginess of the cake, enhancing each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing, cold and creamy, perfectly contrasts the warm chocolate flavor and elevates the dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the cake’s depth.
Coffee or Espresso: The natural pairing with chocolate, a dark roast coffee enhances the flavors while creating a comforting caffeine fix.
Chocolate Sauce: For true chocolate lovers, an extra drizzle on top adds indulgence, making every bite irresistible.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy and slightly sweet, biscotti adds texture and a delightful flavor contrast to the soft, fudgy cake.

Pair these delightful offerings alongside your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake to create a dessert table that is both visually stunning and deeply satisfying for every palate!

How to Store and Freeze Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, store your cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure it’s covered tightly to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: To enjoy your cake warm, simply reheating slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will suffice, making it as delicious as when it was freshly baked!

Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake Variations

Embrace your creative side with these fun twists that enhance the magic of your homemade cake.

Flavor Extracts: Swap vanilla for almond or hazelnut extract for a delightful twist that adds depth to your cake’s taste.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for bursts of melted chocolate throughout the cake, making each bite even more indulgent.
Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter; it adds a refreshing brightness and balances the richness of the chocolate.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spicy undertone that surprises and delights.
Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt and use dairy-free chocolate for a decadent cake that everyone can enjoy.
Alternate Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or honey in place of sugar for a touch of natural sweetness; just adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
Layered Delight: Bake your batter in two round pans instead of a Bundt for a layer cake. Fill the layers with whipped cream or fruit preserves for an extra treat.

Each variation provides a wonderful opportunity to make this cake uniquely yours, turning a classic dessert into a personal masterpiece. Enjoy!

Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cocoa powder should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For an optimal depth of flavor in your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake, I recommend using Dutch-process cocoa powder. It has a richer taste and color, which enhances the overall chocolate experience in your cake.

How should I store the leftover cake?
Very good question! Store the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain that delicious moisture and flavor. If you’d like to keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, just ensure it’s tightly covered to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, indeed! For longer storage, wrap individual slices of your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. This method helps protect the cake from freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and warm the slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
This can happen sometimes! If your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake sinks, it’s often due to not enough leavening agents or overmixing the batter. For future bakes, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, and mix your batter gently when combining the wet and dry ingredients. This will help maintain the cake’s structure as it bakes!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, letting the cake sit overnight enhances the flavors and texture. You can bake your Fudgy Chocolate Bundt Cake a day in advance, allow it to cool, and store it properly. Just remember to add the ganache just before serving for that extra wow factor!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
When it comes to this rich chocolate cake, it’s crucial to keep it away from pets, as chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. For those with allergies, be mindful of gluten in the all-purpose flour. You can look for gluten-free flour alternatives, ensuring they work well as a 1:1 substitute in the recipe.