Imagine slicing into a Triple Chocolate Cake so decadent it makes your eyes roll back—three layers of moist chocolate cake, rich chocolate ganache, and creamy chocolate buttercream, all working together in perfect harmony. This isn’t just any chocolate cake; it’s the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream, and the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home!
This Triple Chocolate Cake has been our most-requested recipe for years, and for good reason. It delivers professional bakery quality with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just a serious chocolate craving, this cake never fails to impress. If you loved our Chocolate Lava Cake, you’ll adore this showstopping layer cake—it’s like that dessert grew up and became even more irresistible.
Fun fact: The term “triple chocolate” first became popular in the 1980s when bakeries began marketing cakes with cocoa, melted chocolate, and chocolate chips. Today, it’s a gold standard for chocolate indulgence.
Ready to bake the most unforgettable chocolate cake of your life? Let’s get started!
What Is Triple Chocolate Cake?
Why call it Triple Chocolate Cake instead of just chocolate cake? Because one chocolate isn’t enough—this beauty packs a triple punch! Think of it as the chocolate version of a three-act play: first the cocoa-infused cake, then the silky chocolate frosting, and finally that glossy ganache finale.
Ever heard the saying “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?” Well, this cake might just be Cupid’s secret weapon. It’s luxurious enough for special occasions but simple enough for weekend baking projects. Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up that fancy chocolate bar you’ve been saving.
So grab your mixer—let’s make chocolate magic!
Why You’ll Love This Triple Chocolate Cake
✅ Three Chocolate Layers – Cocoa, melted chocolate, and chocolate chips for maximum flavor
✅ Costs Less Than Bakery – At about
12vs.
12vs.50+ for store-bought
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – Always the star of any dessert table
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day
✅ Customizable – Add espresso, orange zest, or mint for fun twists
Love chocolate desserts? Try our Flourless Chocolate Cake next—another rich, fudgy showstopper!
Ready to make the best Triple Chocolate Cake of your life? Let’s bake!
How to Make Triple Chocolate Cake
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 2 hrs (with cooling)
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Servings: 12
This cake delivers professional results with simple techniques—perfect for special occasions!
Key Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup strong black coffee (hot)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 1/2 cups butter (softened)
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
(Pro Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for best results!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Cake Layers
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease three 8-inch pans.
- Whisk dry ingredients in large bowl.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake 30-35 mins. Cool completely.
2️⃣ Prepare the Frosting
- Beat butter until creamy. Add cocoa, powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla.
- Whip 5 mins until light and fluffy.
3️⃣ Assemble the Cake
- Place first layer on plate. Spread with 1 cup frosting. Repeat with remaining layers.
- Frost sides and top with remaining frosting. Chill 30 mins.
4️⃣ Add Ganache
- Heat cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit 5 mins, then stir until smooth.
- Cool slightly, then pour over chilled cake. Let set before serving.
What to Serve With Triple Chocolate Cake
- Vanilla ice cream – Classic pairing
- Fresh berries – Bright contrast to rich chocolate
- Whipped cream – Lightens each bite
- Espresso or red wine – Perfect adult pairings
Top Tips for Perfect Cake
🔹 Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon and level for accuracy
🔹 Don’t Overmix Batter – Just until combined
🔹 Use Hot Coffee – Enhances chocolate flavor
🔹 Cool Completely – Prevents melted frosting
🔹 Chill Before Ganache – Creates cleaner drips
Storing & Reheating Tips
- Room Temp: Store covered 3 days
- Fridge: Up to 1 week (bring to room temp before serving)
- Freeze: Unfrosted layers 3 months
- Revive Stale Cake: Microwave slices 10 seconds
Now that you have the secrets to perfect Triple Chocolate Cake, it’s time to preheat that oven! Whether it’s for a celebration or just because, this cake is guaranteed to delight.
Happy baking! �✨