Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe is a rich, indulgent dessert featuring moist chocolate cake layers, silky ganache, and smooth chocolate buttercream.
My Baking Addiction inspired this Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe version, and I baked it in true bakery style using high-quality cocoa, buttermilk, and real chocolate.
The results were deeply flavorful and incredibly satisfying. This Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe stands out for its deep chocolate taste and tender crumb. I didn’t hold back on the chocolate, and it paid off.
I’m now ready to show step-by-step how I created this Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe layered masterpiece from scratch, staying true to the original while adding a personal touch to make it memorable.
Best Delicious Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe
This Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe is irresistibly delicious and perfect for true chocolate lovers. The cake layers are moist, rich, and deeply flavored with dark cocoa and hot coffee, creating an intense chocolate base.
Silky chocolate ganache is spread between the layers, adding a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s all finished with a smooth, fluffy chocolate buttercream frosting that ties every bite together with pure decadence.
Each slice delivers a heavenly burst of chocolate flavor that’s perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying. This cake isn’t just dessert it’s an unforgettable, delicious chocolate experience from start to finish.
How To Prepare Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe?
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yield: 14 slices
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Three 8-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan (for ganache)
- Wire cooling rack
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
- Serrated knife (if needed to level layers)

Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened dark cocoa powder
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee (can substitute hot water for a milder flavor)
For the Chocolate Ganache Filling
- 8 oz (225g) semisweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional – adds shine)
For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups (420g) powdered sugar
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (add more if needed for smoother consistency)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Lightly dust with cocoa powder for easy release.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, dark cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. Add Wet Ingredients (Except Coffee)
Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth.
4. Incorporate Hot Coffee
Slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin, which is perfect—it makes the cake moist and tender.
5. Divide and Bake
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Make the Ganache Filling
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Stir in butter for added gloss, if desired. Cool to room temperature until spreadable.
7. Prepare Chocolate Buttercream
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy, adding more cream if needed.
8. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of ganache evenly over the top. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the third cake layer and gently press down.
9. Frost and Decorate
Cover the entire cake with the chocolate buttercream frosting. Use an offset spatula to smooth the top and sides. For a cleaner look, chill the cake for 15 minutes before applying a final smooth coat of frosting. Decorate as desired chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or more ganache drizzled on top work beautifully.
Notes: You can make the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate. Don’t skip the hot liquid it helps bloom the cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor. For a mocha twist, use espresso instead of coffee. If you’re in a hot climate, chill the cake slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Nutrition Facts Of Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 610 |
Fat | 35g |
Saturated Fat | 20g |
Cholesterol | 90mg |
Sodium | 320mg |
Carbohydrates | 75g |
Sugar | 55g |
Protein | 5g |
Fiber | 4g |
Why My Recipe Works
This Triple Chocolate Cake recipe works because every ingredient serves a purpose to enhance flavor and texture. Dark cocoa and hot coffee deepen the chocolate intensity, while buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness.
The combination of baking soda and baking powder ensures a perfect rise and light crumb. Rich chocolate ganache between layers adds creamy decadence, and the smooth buttercream frosting ties it all together without being overly sweet.
Each step is designed for balance moist, flavorful cake, silky filling, and fluffy frosting making this Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe foolproof, indulgent, and consistently delicious from the first bite to the last.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe delivers rich, layered chocolate flavor with a luxurious texture that satisfies true chocolate cravings.
The moist cake is made with dark cocoa and hot coffee for depth, while buttermilk keeps it soft and tender. A silky chocolate ganache filling adds creamy contrast between the layers, and the smooth, fluffy buttercream frosting provides a balanced, indulgent finish.
It’s a show-stopping dessert that feels special, tastes incredible, and leaves a lasting impression perfect for celebrations or when you want something truly decadent and unforgettable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe slightly warmed or at room temperature to let the ganache and buttercream shine. Complement its richness with a spoonful of crème fraîche or mascarpone for a subtle tang.
A drizzle of raspberry or cherry sauce can add a fruity contrast, while chopped toasted nuts bring texture and a nutty depth.
Pair with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet, for a sophisticated touch, or a hot mocha for cozy comfort. This Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe is versatile enough to serve elegantly or enjoy in a more casual setting.
Expert Tips And Tricks
1. Using eggs, buttermilk, and butter at room temperature helps the batter blend smoothly, resulting in an even crumb and better rise.
2. Adding hot, freshly brewed coffee to the batter deepens the chocolate flavor without imparting a coffee taste, creating a richer cake.
3. Sifting flour and cocoa powder removes lumps and aerates the mixture, ensuring a light, tender texture instead of a dense cake.
4. Allow cake layers to cool fully before adding ganache or frosting. This prevents melting and keeps layers intact during assembly.
5. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting to seal in crumbs, then chill the cake for 20-30 minutes. This makes the final frosting layer smoother and easier to apply.
6. Dip your spatula or knife in hot water, dry it, and use it to spread frosting. This technique helps create a sleek, professional finish.
Best Variations Of Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe
1. Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Add chopped toasted hazelnuts between the layers and mix Nutella into the buttercream frosting for a nutty twist on the classic. Top with chocolate-hazelnut spread and whole hazelnuts.
2. Mocha Chocolate Cake
Enhance the coffee flavor by adding espresso powder to the cake batter and ganache. Frost with mocha buttercream for a rich chocolate-coffee combo.
3. Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake
Layer the cake with salted caramel sauce in addition to ganache. Drizzle caramel over the frosted cake and sprinkle with sea salt flakes for sweet-salty contrast.
4. Mint Chocolate Cake
Add peppermint extract to the frosting and ganache. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mints for a refreshing and festive flavor.
5. Chocolate Raspberry Cake
Spread raspberry jam between the layers along with ganache. Add fresh raspberries on top and a raspberry puree drizzle for a fruity, tangy balance.
Additions to Elevate Your Triple Chocolate Cake
➤ Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Folding semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter adds delightful pockets of melted chocolate in every bite, enhancing texture and richness.
➤ Chopped Nuts: Adding toasted walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts gives a pleasant crunch and a complementary nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate layers.
➤ Espresso Powder: Incorporating a teaspoon of espresso powder intensifies the chocolate flavor, making it deeper and more complex without imparting a strong coffee taste.
➤ Fresh Fruit or Fruit Preserves: Layering fresh raspberries or spreading cherry jam between cake layers introduces a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness and adds brightness to the dessert.
➤ Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkling a light dusting of flaky sea salt over the finished cake or ganache brings out the chocolate’s richness and adds a sophisticated sweet-salty dimension.
Storage Instructions
Store the Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist and fresh.
If your environment is warm, refrigerate the cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in a cake dome to prevent it from drying out. Before serving, bring the cake to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
(FAQs) Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe
Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with almond or soy milk mixed with vinegar, and use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives for frosting and ganache.
How do I avoid cracks in the cake layers?
Bake at the recommended temperature and avoid opening the oven door too early to prevent temperature shocks that cause cracking.
Is it okay to double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use larger pans or bake in batches, adjusting baking time as needed.
Can I decorate the cake differently?
Yes! Try topping with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or edible gold flakes for a stunning presentation.
How do I fix a runny ganache?
Chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes and stir gently. If still too thin, add a little more chopped chocolate and melt again.
Conclusion
This Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe is truly the best and most delicious recipe that everyone will love. I made it easy to follow so you can enjoy baking it without hassle.
I’m excited to share this Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe with you, hoping it inspires your next baking adventure. I’m confident that once you try it, you’ll appreciate how rich and satisfying it is.
I hope you understand the steps clearly and wish you all the best in making this amazing Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe!
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Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Three 8-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Saucepan (for ganache)
- Wire cooling rack
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
- Serrated knife (if needed to level layers)
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers
- 1 ¾ cups 220g all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup 65g unsweetened dark cocoa powder
- 2 cups 400g granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup 240ml buttermilk, at room temperature
- ½ cup 120ml vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup 240ml hot coffee (can substitute hot water for a milder flavor)
For the Chocolate Ganache Filling
- 8 oz 225g semisweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 cup 240ml heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter optional – adds shine
For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup 230g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups 420g powdered sugar
- ¾ cup 65g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup 60ml heavy cream (add more if needed for smoother consistency)
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Lightly dust with cocoa powder for easy release.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, dark cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
Add Wet Ingredients (Except Coffee)
- Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed until well combined and smooth.
Incorporate Hot Coffee
- Slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin, which is perfect—it makes the cake moist and tender.
Divide and Bake
- Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Ganache Filling
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Stir in butter for added gloss, if desired. Cool to room temperature until spreadable.
Prepare Chocolate Buttercream
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat until light and fluffy, adding more cream if needed.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of ganache evenly over the top. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the third cake layer and gently press down.
Frost and Decorate
- Cover the entire cake with the chocolate buttercream frosting. Use an offset spatula to smooth the top and sides. For a cleaner look, chill the cake for 15 minutes before applying a final smooth coat of frosting. Decorate as desired chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or more ganache drizzled on top work beautifully.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Triple Chocolate Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 610 |
Fat | 35g |
Saturated Fat | 20g |
Cholesterol | 90mg |
Sodium | 320mg |
Carbohydrates | 75g |
Sugar | 55g |
Protein | 5g |
Fiber | 4g |

Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.