Naked Chocolate Cake

This 3-layer Naked Chocolate Cake is so easy to make. It’s great for birthdays, bake sales, potlucks, holidays, or just about any occasion.

If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing more tempting than the rich goodness of chocolate. You know what I’m talking about, right? Food doesn’t get much better than good, quality chocolate.

So, in light of that, I want to share a recipe with you for a decadent chocolate cake that won’t soon be forgotten. It’s a naked chocolate cake recipe that will bring more happiness into your life, haha!

This is a soft, moist chocolate cake that’s perfectly balanced with a creamy frosting, and a hint of a cocoa powder aftertaste. The “naked” style, where the layers shine through without being fully covered in frosting, only adds to its rustic charm.

This Naked Chocolate Cake is truly a dream come true for every chocolate lover out there. I’m excited to be able to share this little slice of heaven with you.

So, whether you’re prepping for Christmas, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, hosting a special occasion, or just looking to indulge, this Naked Chocolate Cake should be on top of your baking list.

With every bite, you’re welcomed by the rich dance of cocoa powder and brown sugar, rounded out by the tang of sour cream. It’s pure, chocolatey goodness.

Remember to share your beautiful cake creations on social media; I’d love to see them! Happy baking, and may your day be as sweet as this cake.

Common Questions About Naked Chocolate Cake

What’s the deal with “Naked” cakes?

“Naked” refers to the minimalistic frosting approach, allowing the beautiful cake layers to peek through. It’s not only a beautiful cake style but also perfect for those who prefer a less sweet finish.

Sometimes a different approach (in this case, a simpler one) is what really wows the crowd.

Do I need an electric mixer?

While an electric mixer or a hand mixer makes the process easier and ensures a smoother cake batter, you can still achieve a delicious result with a good old-fashioned whisk and some elbow grease.

What’s the secret to a soft, moist cake?

It’s all in the sour cream! This awesome recipe uses sour cream to ensure your cake remains perfectly moist. If you think that’s a little odd, just trust me on this. It really does make all the difference.

Storage

I love how unique this cake looks when all is said and done. Everyone is so used to a cake being covered in frosting. Then you bring this baby out and, BAM! Everyone notices.

Refrigerator

Store the Naked Chocolate Cake in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. It’ll remain fresh for up to 3 days. 

Freezer

For a longer shelf-life, wrap the cake layers separately in plastic wrap and store. When you’re ready to serve, thaw, and frost as per your liking.

Tips

I’ve got just a few tips for you here. Make sure you save the recipe card for later. I know you’re gonna want to make this one again!

• Always ensure your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother cake batter.
• Use parchment paper at the bottom of your prepared cake pans. This will make releasing the cake a breeze.
• When adding the boiling water, pour slowly to avoid curdling.
• A cake tester or toothpick is your best friend to check the doneness of the cake.
• For an even richer flavor, try a chocolate buttercream or a rich chocolate ganache as an alternative frosting.

Ingredients

Doesn’t this list get your mouth watering? It’s all really simple and it comes together to make something amazing. 

• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Butter (softened)
• Cocoa powder
• Boiling water
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Sour cream
• Additional frosting ingredients: Butter, confectioner’s sugar, vanilla, milk, and optional chopped chocolate bar.

How to Make Naked Chocolate Cake

Don’t worry! There is nothing complicated here. Just follow these instructions one step at a time and this naked cake recipe will become your new favorite.

Cake Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2. Prepare three, 8-inch round cake pans by spraying them with cooking spray or greasing them with shortening, and then coating them with a fine layer of cocoa powder. Set aside. (you can also add a parchment round to the bottom and grease and dust that as well for added easy-release)
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, eggs, and butter. Beat well.
4. Add the cocoa powder. 
5. Slowly add the boiling water while mixing. Blend until smooth.
6. Add the flour and baking soda. Beat again until smooth.
7. Add the sour cream. Beat again until smooth.
8. Divide the batter between the three prepared cake pans.
9. Bake for 15 minutes or until the toothpick test comes out clean.
10. Allow cakes to cool for 15 minutes before flipping them out onto your work surface. It may help to run a knife around the edges to release the cake.
11. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting

1. Cream the butter and confectioner’s sugar together.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and the vanilla. Beat well. (If the frosting is too thick, add more milk. If it is too thin, add more sugar.)

Assemble

1. Place one layer of cake on a serving dish.
2. Cover with 1/3 of the frosting.
3. Add another layer of cake on top of that frosting, followed by another layer of frosting.
4. Add the final layer of cake with the remaining frosting on top.
5. If desired, top with chopped chocolate bars.

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Naked Chocolate Cake

Don’t skimp on the cake tester. You want to be sure that every single layer of cake is fully done. The last thing you want is a cake with a saggy middle!

• Three 8-inch round cake pans
• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand mixer (optional but recommended)
• Rubber spatula
• Cake tester or toothpick
• Offset spatula for frosting

What to Serve With Naked Chocolate Cake

What’s your favorite thing to serve with a chocolate cake? Be sure to let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you!

• Fresh berries or fresh fruit to contrast the rich chocolate.
• A scoop of vanilla or mocha ice cream.
• A hot cup of coffee or cold milk.

Why You Should Make Naked Chocolate Cake

Everyone should try out different cake recipes now and then. At least, that’s my opinion on the subject! From sponge cakes to tres leches, there are so many things to try!

• It’s a showstopper: This beautiful cake is sure to impress on any special occasion.
• Chocolate lover’s dream: Every bite is a delightful chocolatey experience.
• Easy and straightforward: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, even a baking newbie can master this.
• Versatile: Perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just a regular chocolate craving day.

Variations and Add-Ins for Naked Chocolate Cake

I’ve got a few ideas for you if you want to change things up a bit. As always, don’t hesitate to try out something new if it catches your fancy!

• Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chips or chunks to your cake batter.
• Mocha Delight: Introduce a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter.
• Fresh Twist: Layer the cake with fresh fruit in between.
• Decadence Overload: Drizzle with dark chocolate ganache for an added layer of richness.
• Creamy Goodness: Swap out the frosting for a luscious cream cheese frosting.

If you love this easy naked cake recipe, you’re going to love these other cakes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

Try It With These Frosting Flavors

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

Champagne Frosting

Best Bakery Buttercream Frosting

Coffee Buttercream Frosting

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