Costco Chocolate Cake Recipe – Copycat Recipe

This Costco chocolate cake recipe is my homemade take on the iconic cake loved for its rich, dark layers and velvety frosting.

Recreating such classics and discovering new things is my real job bringing familiar flavors into your kitchen in a practical, enjoyable way.

The main purpose of creating this recipe is to offer a bakery-style experience at home, tailored for anyone who appreciates a deep, indulgent chocolate cake. Originally sold at Costco stores, this cake built a loyal following before it was discontinued.

Now, I’m sharing how to make it easily, along with serving ideas, tips, health perks, fun upgrades, storage methods, and helpful answers.

Best Costco Chocolate Cake Recipe

The taste of this Costco chocolate cake recipe is rich and deeply chocolatey, with layers that are moist and tender without being overly dense.

The Dutch-processed cocoa and melted dark chocolate give it an intense, slightly bittersweet flavor that’s balanced perfectly by the subtle tang from the buttermilk and sour cream.

The chocolate cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, smooth texture with a mild tanginess that complements the cake’s sweetness.

Together, these Costco chocolate cake recipe elements create a well-rounded, indulgent flavor that satisfies chocolate cravings while feeling fresh and homemade.

How To Prepare Costco Chocolate Cake Recipe?

Preparation Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 14 slices

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• 2 large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans (x2)
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula (for frosting)
• Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (to melt chocolate)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup hot water or freshly brewed coffee
• 100g dark chocolate, melted
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3–4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep Pans:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Whisk to evenly combine.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream or Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4. Incorporate Wet into Dry:

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed (or using a hand whisk). Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

5. Add Hot Liquid and Melted Chocolate:

Carefully add the hot water or brewed coffee to the batter while mixing on low. Then fold in the melted dark chocolate until the batter is fully smooth and slightly runny.

6. Bake the Cake Layers:

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 32–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

7. Make the Frosting:

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until fluffy and smooth. Add in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, until you reach a smooth and spreadable consistency.

8. Assemble and Frost the Cake:

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer over it, then frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish. Optional: garnish with chocolate shavings or curls.

Recipe Notes: Using coffee instead of hot water deepens the chocolate flavor. Make sure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. Chill the frosted cake for 30 minutes before slicing for clean cuts. The frosting is rich and not overly sweet, perfectly balancing the cake’s deep chocolate flavor.

Nutrition Facts Of Costco Chocolate Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	520
Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	16g
Carbohydrates	60g
Sugar	45g
Protein	6g
Fiber	3g
Cholesterol	80mg
Sodium	250mg

Why Peoples Like Costco Chocolate Cake Recipe?

People like the Costco chocolate cake recipe because it delivers a rich, moist, and deeply satisfying chocolate flavor that feels indulgent but familiar.

The texture is soft and tender, with layers that hold together beautifully without being too dense. The frosting is smooth, creamy, and not overly sweet, which balances the intense chocolate in the cake itself.

It reminds many of a classic bakery-style dessert without the high price tag. There’s also a sense of nostalgia many remember enjoying it at family parties or celebrations, which makes recreating it at home feel special.

Why My Recipe Works

My Costco chocolate cake recipe works because it combines carefully chosen ingredients that enhance the chocolate flavor while keeping the cake moist and tender.

The use of buttermilk and sour cream adds richness and a delicate crumb, while Dutch-processed cocoa and melted dark chocolate deliver deep, authentic chocolate notes. Balancing baking soda and baking powder ensures the cake rises perfectly.

The frosting complements the cake with creamy, tangy cream cheese and smooth butter, creating a balanced finish. Clear, step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow and successful every time.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Costco chocolate cake recipe is all about enhancing the experience. It pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance the richness.

For a special touch, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a bright, fruity contrast.

You can also sprinkle some chocolate shavings or crushed nuts on top for extra texture. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these ideas make every bite even more enjoyable.

Health Benefits

This Costco chocolate cake recipe offers some health benefits despite being a dessert. The dark chocolate and cocoa powder contain antioxidants that help protect the body from damage and may support heart health.

Buttermilk and sour cream contribute protein and calcium, which are good for bones. Eggs add essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and B vitamins.

While it’s still a sweet treat best enjoyed in moderation, these wholesome ingredients give it some nutritional value beyond just sugar and fat.

Recipe Tips And Techniques

1. Make sure eggs, buttermilk, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend smoothly and results in a lighter, more even batter.

2. Always sift your flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar to avoid lumps. This keeps the texture silky and the frosting smooth.

3. When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of tender.

4. Check expiration dates. Fresh leavening agents ensure your cake rises properly with a soft crumb.

5. Pour the hot liquid gradually into the batter. This helps the cocoa bloom, intensifying the chocolate flavor without curdling the batter.

6. Don’t rush the frosting step. Let the cakes cool fully on a rack so the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off. Patience here guarantees a neat, professional finish.

Additions To Flavor or Texture

➤ Espresso Powder: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter to deepen the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.

➤ Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Fold in ½ to 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for gooey chocolate pockets in every bite.

➤ Crushed Nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a subtle crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the rich cake.

➤ Raspberry or Cherry Jam Filling: Spread a thin layer of fruit jam between the cake layers before frosting for a fruity surprise and a nice tart contrast.

Personal Touch Or Story

This Costco chocolate cake recipe brings back memories of family celebrations where that iconic, oversized cake was always the star of the table.

I started making my own version after it disappeared from shelves, determined to recreate that same rich flavor and creamy frosting we all loved.

Now, it’s become a tradition in my own home something I bake for birthdays, holidays, or just because. Sharing this Costco chocolate cake recipe feels like passing on a sweet piece of those moments.

How To Store Leftovers

To store leftover Costco chocolate cake recipe, I recommend covering it tightly with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out.

Store it in the refrigerator, especially because of the cream cheese frosting it stays fresh and safe to eat for up to 5 days this way.

Before serving again, let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes so the cake and frosting soften up. If you want to store it longer, slice and freeze it in individual portions, wrapped well, for up to 2 months.

(FAQs) About Costco Chocolate Cake Recipe

Conclusion

This easy and delicious idea for making the Costco chocolate cake recipe brings all the rich, moist chocolate flavors right into your kitchen without hassle.

I’ve carefully laid out every step so you can follow along with confidence, and I’m sure you’ll understand how to create this wonderful Costco chocolate cake recipe.

With simple ingredients and clear instructions, it’s a Costco chocolate cake recipe anyone can tackle. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every bite of this classic, homemade Costco chocolate cake recipe treat.

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