🍰 Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) hot water or hot coffee (for deeper flavor)
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Caramel Filling
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)
🧁 Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 — Prepare the cake batter
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and line a rectangular baking pan (9 × 13 inch) with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee and whisk until well blended — the batter will be slightly thin (that’s what keeps it moist).
Step 2 — Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool completely, then carefully cut the cake in half horizontally.
Step 3 — Make the caramel filling
- In a heavy saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat until golden brown, stirring gently.
- Add the butter and stir until melted.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly (it will bubble!).
- Let it cook for 1–2 minutes until smooth and thick.
- Remove from heat, add vanilla, and let it cool until spreadable.
💡 Shortcut: You can use dulce de leche or store-bought caramel sauce if you prefer quick assembly.
Step 4 — Assemble the cake
- Spread a generous layer of caramel filling on the bottom half of the cake.
- Gently place the second half on top.
- Press lightly so the caramel spreads evenly between the layers.
Step 5 — Finishing touch
- Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or add whipped cream before serving.
🌟 Texture & Taste
This cake is:
- Ultra-soft: The oil and hot liquid make it perfectly moist.
- Rich: Deep cocoa flavor without being heavy.
- Balanced: Sweet caramel pairs beautifully with the mild bitterness of chocolate.
Every bite is soft, creamy, and melts instantly on your tongue — the definition of comfort dessert.
🍮 Variations to Try
- Nutty Caramel Cake: Add roasted hazelnuts or pecans to the caramel layer.
- Mocha Twist: Replace hot water with strong brewed coffee.
- Chocolate Ganache Layer: Top with a thin layer of chocolate ganache for a glossy finish.
- Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the filling before layering.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake:
- With a hot cup of coffee or cappuccino ☕
- As a dessert centerpiece for parties 🎉
- Chilled for a fudgier texture, or warm for a gooey middle 🍫
Cut it into neat squares and watch them disappear in minutes!
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature: Keeps 1 day in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator: Up to 5 days — just bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat briefly in the microwave for that freshly-baked softness.
💡 Pro Baking Tips
- Use good-quality cocoa powder — it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t over-mix the batter once the flour is added; mix just until combined.
- For an ultra-soft crumb, don’t overbake — remove as soon as a toothpick comes out clean.
- If making ahead, refrigerate and dust with powdered sugar right before serving.
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- soft chocolate cake recipe
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SEO title:
The Softest Chocolate Cake Ever — With Creamy Caramel Filling (Melts in Your Mouth!)
Meta description:
This ultra-soft chocolate cake with creamy caramel filling literally melts in your mouth. Easy, rich, and perfect for birthdays, holidays, or coffee time.
Internal link ideas:
- Homemade Baileys for Christmas Gifts 🎁
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📸 Photography & Presentation Tips
- Slice the cake into clean squares using a hot knife for picture-perfect edges.
- Dust with powdered sugar right before photographing for contrast.
- Add a fork or cup of coffee in the frame for lifestyle appeal.
- Use natural daylight for soft, warm tones.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Soft Chocolate Cake with Caramel Filling is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Moist, rich, and perfectly balanced, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress.
Once you taste it, you’ll understand why everyone calls it “the softest cake in the world.” 🍫✨