With a soft chime, the holiday season is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like the warmth of baking to brighten those chilly days. My Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake is a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering, featuring rich chocolate layers and a luscious peppermint ganache that brings a hint of winter magic to every slice. Not only is this treat indulgently satisfying, but it’s also remarkably easy to prepare, making it a go-to for both seasoned bakers and those just discovering their culinary passion. Picture the frosting adorned with swirls of creamy peppermint buttercream, elevating your dessert game for holiday celebrations! Are you curious about how this delicious creation comes together? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is This Cake a Holiday Must?
Indulgent Flavor: Each slice reveals rich chocolate layers complemented by a fudgy peppermint ganache that dances on your palate.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can impress their guests with this festive creation.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its appealing presentation and satisfying taste make it the ideal choice for parties and gatherings, ensuring smiles all around.
Versatile Options: Feel free to adjust flavors by swapping peppermint for orange extract, adding a delightful citrus twist!
Make Ahead: You can bake this cake in advance; it freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy stress-free celebrations.
Elevate your holiday desserts and wow your friends and family this season with this Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake! If you’re interested in other delightful sweets, check out my lovely Cider Pound Cake or the delicious Moist Blueberry Zucchini.
Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake Ingredients
Get ready to create a festive masterpiece!
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
- Baking Soda – Works with acidic ingredients to ensure the cake rises beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
- Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix – Adds moisture and richness; use 2 tablespoons Instant Clearjel instead for better texture if desired.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses the cake with deep chocolate flavor.
- Sugar – Sweetens and balances the bitterness of the cocoa.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture with a touch of caramel flavor.
- Eggs – Provide moisture and crucial binding.
- Buttermilk – Ensures a tender crumb; a mix of sour cream and half-and-half works as a substitution.
- Brewed Coffee – Enhances the chocolate flavor without imparting a coffee taste.
- Vegetable Oil – Contributes to moistness; substitute with melted coconut oil for a light flavor change.
- Dark Corn Syrup – Adds sweetness and moisture; brown sugar can be used in its place.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and enhances all flavors.
- Salted Butter – Brings richness to both the cake and ganache.
For the Ganache
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Creates a fudgy texture in the ganache; consider milk chocolate for a sweeter touch.
- Heavy Cream – Ensures a smooth and rich ganache.
- Pure Peppermint Extract – Infuses the ganache with refreshing peppermint flavor; high-quality extract yields the best results.
For the Buttercream Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream.
- Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy, luscious texture.
- Shortening – Stabilizes the frosting, keeping it well-formed for decoration.
Prepare yourself for the fluffiest, most indulgent Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (162°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and generously spray it with cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking. This will set the stage for your Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake, ensuring it bakes evenly and comes out perfectly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and chocolate instant pudding mix. Whisking the ingredients ensures a uniform mixture and helps to aerate the flour, promoting a fluffy texture in your cake. Set this bowl aside once combined.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, brewed coffee, vegetable oil, dark corn syrup, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. The combination of these wet ingredients will help create a moist and delicious base for the cake, enhancing its rich flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Butter and Chocolate
Melt the salted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in increments to avoid burning. Once melted, stir this mixture into the wet ingredients, ensuring it is fully incorporated. This will add richness to the Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake batter.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Allow the batter to rest for 5–10 minutes; this helps develop the cake’s texture and ensures a moist finish when baked.
Step 6: Bake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 16 minutes, then lower the temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue baking for an additional 6–10 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Freeze
Once your cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. If desired, you can wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for later use. This step is great for planning ahead, making the Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake easy to prepare for holiday gatherings.
Step 8: Make Ganache
For the ganache, heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in pure peppermint extract for a fresh touch, then chill the ganache until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Step 9: Make Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, salted butter, and shortening until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by vanilla and peppermint extract, whipping on high speed until the buttercream is fluffy and light, creating a perfect frosting for your cake.
Step 10: Layer and Frost Cake
Carefully cut the baked cake into layers, ideally while it’s still slightly frozen for cleaner cuts. Place one layer on a serving platter, spread a generous amount of ganache over top, and repeat with remaining layers. Apply a crumb coat using the buttercream, chill briefly, and then frost the entire cake with the peppermint buttercream for a festive finish.
What to Serve with Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake
Imagine delighting your guests with a well-rounded festive meal that pairs beautifully with this decadent cake’s chocolatey and minty flavors.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate enhances the cake’s flavors while offering an inviting aroma that fills the room. Consider topping it with marshmallows or whipped cream for added indulgence.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream offsets the rich layers of the cake, creating a fantastic contrast. As the ice cream melts slightly over the fudge cake, it makes for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Peppermint Mocha: Coffee lovers will rejoice with a peppermint mocha on the side, adding a refreshing twist that complements the cake’s peppermint essence, creating a harmonious holiday duo.
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Chocolate Mint Cookies: Complement the cake with crispy chocolate mint cookies. They echo its flavors while adding a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully against the tender cake.
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Spiced Gingerbread: The warm spices of gingerbread create a perfect balance with peppermint. This pairing evokes holiday nostalgia, making it excellent for festive gatherings.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad with citrus and berries lightens the rich flavors of the cake. It’s a refreshing palate cleanser and adds a touch of brightness to your dessert table.
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Mulled Wine: For an adult twist, serve warm mulled wine, which enhances the festive mood while providing a layered flavor experience that goes hand in hand with the indulgent cake.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate each slice, offering a dreamy texture and sweetness that perfectly harmonizes with the peppermint fudge layers.
Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make this cake truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful allergen-friendly version.
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Citrus Twist: Swap peppermint extract for orange extract to infuse your cake with a refreshing citrus essence. It’s a bright alternative that rings in the holidays beautifully!
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Sweet Switch: Use milk chocolate chips in the buttercream for a creamier, sweeter frosting that appeals to all palates. This little change makes a big impact!
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Crunch Factor: Top the finished cake with crushed candy canes for an extra festive and crunchy topping, bringing texture and holiday cheer!
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Moisture Boost: Instead of buttermilk, mix sour cream with half-and-half for a different layer of creaminess that enhances the moistness of the cake.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk alternatives to create a fantastic vegan version that everyone can enjoy during the festive season.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of chocolate chunks to the batter for extra fudgy goodness that creates delightful pockets of richness throughout the cake.
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Heat It Up: Reinvent the flavor profile with a pinch of cayenne pepper in the buttercream for those who love a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness!
For more delightful cake ideas, don’t miss my Moist Chocolate Chip or the delightful Apple Crumb Cake!
How to Store and Freeze Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake
Fridge: Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the cake, ensure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Thawing: To thaw, move the wrapped cake to the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain its moist texture.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-20 seconds. Enjoy the fudgy goodness with a scoop of ice cream if desired!
Make Ahead Options
These Moist Peppermint Fudge Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance and keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. The ganache can also be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just reheat gently before assembling. For the buttercream, make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days; whip it again for a light texture before frosting. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the chilled cake, spread the ganache, frost with buttercream, and enjoy a stunning dessert with minimal day-of effort!
Expert Tips for Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature. This leads to a better emulsification, making your batter smoother and the cake moister.
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Watch the Bake Time: Check for doneness a couple of minutes before the recommended time. Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake to avoid overbaking.
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Storage Solution: If making ahead, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap once cooled. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor, ensuring a fresh taste when you’re ready to frost and serve.
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Frosting Consistency: If your buttercream feels too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar until perfect!
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Chill the Ganache: Allow your ganache to cool while the cake bakes. It’ll thicken beautifully, creating a luscious layer between the rich chocolate cake and peppermint frosting.
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Go Creative with Garnishes: Top your finished Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake with crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra holiday flair and texture.
Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh eggs that aren’t past their expiration date. For the buttermilk, ensure it’s not sour—check for an off smell. Your cocoa powder should be fresh for that deep, rich flavor; store it in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life.
How should I store the Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake?
Once cooled, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have a decorated cake, place it in an airtight container. Leftover cake can also be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours if it’s not overly warm.
Can I freeze the Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake?
Yes, you can! For freezing, allow your cake to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil—this helps to prevent freezer burn. The cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture retention.
What should I do if my cake isn’t rising properly?
If your cake isn’t rising, there are a couple of things to check. First, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; they can lose potency over time. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter as it can develop gluten, leading to a dense cake. A light touch when mixing gives the best texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re looking to accommodate dietary restrictions, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, or replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to make it vegan. Always check the labels on your ingredients for potential allergens.
How can I adjust flavors in this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can swap peppermint extract with orange extract for a festive citrus kick or use milk chocolate chips in the ganache for a sweeter, creamier finish. Another lovely alternative is to add crushed candy canes on top of the frosting for a delightful crunch and added holiday flair.
Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake: Your New Holiday Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and pudding mix in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, coffee, vegetable oil, dark corn syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
- Melt butter and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth, then mix into wet ingredients.
- Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and mix until just combined, allowing the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Spread batter in prepared pan and bake for 16 minutes, then lower temperature to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 6-10 more minutes.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the ganache, heat cream until simmering, then stir in chocolate chips until melted. Mix in peppermint extract and chill.
- Beat together cream cheese, butter, and shortening, then gradually add powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Cut the cake into layers, adding ganache in between, and frost with buttercream.
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