When you think of a dessert that feels like a warm hug from Brooklyn, look no further than the Brooklyn Blackout Cake. This decadent chocolate cake, layered with rich chocolate pudding and frosted with an irresistible chocolate ganache, is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth. zesty lemon cake recipe indulge in a classic carrot cake Just imagine cutting through that glossy exterior to reveal moist layers, a soft crumb, and a flavor explosion that’ll make you weak at the knees. For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
The first time I encountered Brooklyn Blackout Cake was during a family reunion where my Aunt Mildred presented it as her latest baking masterpiece. There we were—crowded around the table, eyes wide with anticipation—as she unveiled this towering creation. It became an instant legend in our family lore, sparking debates over who could eat the most slices without going into a sugar coma. Trust me; this cake is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration waiting to happen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Brooklyn Blackout Cake is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros
- Rich chocolate flavors will dance on your palate while the visual appeal will impress any guest
- Whether for birthdays or casual gatherings, its versatility shines through every slice
I fondly recall my cousin Bobby’s face when he took his first bite; it was like witnessing someone discover their long-lost soulmate.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: A basic but essential ingredient that gives structure and tenderness to the cake.
Cocoa Powder: Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter beautifully; don’t skimp on this one!
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents help your cake rise perfectly. perfect for festive celebrations.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully; it’s like magic! For more inspiration, check out this Magic Pecan Cheesecake Bars recipe.
Eggs: Bind everything together and add a lovely richness to the cake.
Buttermilk: This secret weapon keeps the cake moist and tender.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness; using unsalted helps you control overall saltiness.
Chocolate Chips: For extra gooeyness in every bite; feel free to use dark or semi-sweet.
Heavy Cream: Essential for achieving that silky ganache frosting; don’t even think about substituting it!
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all those lovely chocolatey flavors—don’t skip it!
Pudding Mix (Chocolate): The filling that makes this cake truly legendary; instant is best for ease.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat and Prep Your Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Create the Chocolate Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until fully mixed before adding wet ingredients.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and warm water. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix or you’ll have tough cakes!
Bake Until Perfect: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen should smell divine by now!
Prepare Chocolate Pudding Filling: While cakes cool, prepare instant chocolate pudding according to package directions. Refrigerate until set—and try not to eat it all before assembling!
Create Ganache Frosting: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering; pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes before stirring until smooth—this is pure heaven!
Now you’re ready to assemble this beautiful monstrosity!
You’ve done all the hard work now! Cut each cooled cake layer in half horizontally so you have four layers total. Start layering: place one layer on your serving plate and spread some chocolate pudding on top followed by another layer of cake. Repeat until you finish with a layer of cake on top.
Frost the entire cake generously with ganache using an offset spatula. Don’t worry about making it look perfect—it’s supposed to be indulgent! Optional: sprinkle some cocoa powder or grated chocolate on top for added flair.
Let’s be honest—after all this effort, you’ll want to dive right into your masterpiece! But if you can hold off for just an hour (or two) to let everything set up nicely in the fridge, you’ll thank yourself later.
And there you have it—the glorious Brooklyn Blackout Cake! Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply indulging in life’s sweetest moments, this recipe will undoubtedly bring joy to your table (and perhaps cause some friendly disputes over who gets the last slice). try a pistachio cake variation Enjoy every delicious bite!
You Must Know
- Brooklyn Blackout Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that combines chocolate cake, pudding, and frosting
- Ensuring each layer is moist enhances the flavor immensely
- This cake will make your taste buds dance and your heart sing with every bite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by baking the cake layers first, letting them cool completely before preparing the chocolate pudding. This sequence ensures your layers remain moist and easy to assemble.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some cocoa powder for espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also add a hint of orange zest for a surprising twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Brooklyn Blackout Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor
- Avoid overmixing your batter to keep it light
- Always chill your pudding before layering for the best texture and taste
Baking this Brooklyn Blackout Cake made me realize how much joy desserts bring to gatherings. The smiles on my friends’ faces were priceless!
FAQ
What makes Brooklyn Blackout Cake unique?
It’s known for its intense chocolate flavor and layers of chocolate pudding.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and assemble it a day in advance for convenience.
Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend.

Brooklyn Blackout Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Experience the ultimate chocolate delight with Brooklyn Blackout Cake, a decadent dessert that layers moist chocolate cake, rich chocolate pudding, and silky ganache. This iconic treat is perfect for any occasion, promising a burst of flavor that will captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a cozy gathering, this cake is sure to become the star of the show.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Prepare pudding according to package instructions and refrigerate until set.
- For ganache frosting, heat heavy cream until simmering and pour over chocolate chips; let sit for five minutes before stirring until smooth.
- Cut each cooled cake layer in half horizontally to create four layers. Layer cake with pudding between each layer and frost with ganache.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (118g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding espresso powder or orange zest. Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.