This Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe is a decadent treat that perfectly balances deep chocolate flavors with the warm, nutty notes of browned butter and a splash of bourbon. It’s a moist, richly textured cake that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly approachable for any home baker looking to impress. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a moment to spoil yourself, this cake combines everyday ingredients with an extraordinary twist that elevates your dessert game to new heights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the rich brown butter that adds a toasty depth, to the bourbon that brings in aromatic warmth, each component plays its part in creating the perfect chocolate cake experience.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This is browned to develop a nutty, caramel-like flavor that’s key to the cake’s unique taste.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s structure.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar: Contributes moistness and a subtle molasses undertone.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: For that rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water: Intensifies the chocolate notes and keeps the batter smooth.
- 2 large eggs: Provide moisture and help bind everything together.
- 1/3 cup bourbon: Infuses the cake with a warm, boozy hint that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet floral note.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake structure and crumb.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cake rise and become light and tender.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate taste.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Used in the frosting for a creamy, rich finish.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Added to the frosting for a luscious chocolate creaminess.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreadability.
- 2–3 tablespoons bourbon: Gives the frosting a subtle boozy warmth to echo the cake.
- 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream: Adjusts the frosting’s consistency for smooth spreading.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness in the frosting.
How to Make Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally until the butter turns a golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This step is essential because the browned butter forms a deep, rich flavor base for the cake, giving it that irresistible toasty quality you won’t get with regular melted butter.
Step 2: Mix Sugars and Cocoa Powder
Transfer the browned butter to a bowl and whisk in both the granulated and brown sugars along with the unsweetened cocoa powder. This combination ensures your cake will be rich and satisfyingly sweet with the perfect chocolate punch.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
Next, stir in the hot coffee or hot water to make a smooth, shiny batter. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the bourbon and vanilla extract. These liquids not only moisten the batter but also intensify the chocolate and add that signature bourbon warmth that defines this recipe.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. This careful folding helps maintain the cake’s tender crumb while ensuring even distribution of leavening agents for perfect rise and texture.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should have a slightly springy surface and the rich aroma will signal it’s ready to cool.
Step 6: Prepare the Bourbon Chocolate Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together the softened unsalted butter with cocoa powder and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add bourbon, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and continue to mix until smooth and spreadable. This frosting is luxuriously creamy with just the right balance of boozy undertones.
Step 7: Assemble and Frost
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the bourbon chocolate frosting evenly across the top and sides. For an extra touch, you can swirl the frosting to create a rustic look or pipe elegant designs if you’re feeling fancy. This finishing step completes your Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe with style.
How to Serve Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To highlight the deep, nutty flavors, garnish with toasted pecans or walnuts. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness. Fresh berries like raspberries bring a bright, tart burst that complements the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside a small glass of bourbon or a bold cup of coffee, allowing the flavors to mingle and elevate your dessert moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices of this cake stacked with layers of frosting in between for a stunning presentation. You could also cut the cake into mini squares and serve it on decorative toothpicks at parties, turning it into an elegant finger food delight. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment paper tied with twine makes for charming edible gifts as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making each bite as delicious as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting. Frosted cake can also be frozen but should be wrapped carefully to prevent freezer burn and thawed slowly to maintain frosting texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm gently in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings out the bonus of melty frosting and intensifies the wonderful aromas from the bourbon and brown butter.
FAQs
Can I substitute bourbon with something else?
Yes, if you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with vanilla extract or even a splash of strong coffee. Keep in mind, however, that the bourbon adds a unique warmth and depth that’s central to this cake’s character.
How do I brown butter properly?
To brown butter, melt it over medium heat in a light-colored pan and watch it closely. It will foam up and then the milk solids will begin to turn golden brown. Once you smell a nutty aroma and see browned bits settling, remove it from heat immediately to avoid burning.
Is the coffee taste noticeable in the cake?
The hot coffee enhances the chocolate’s richness without imparting a strong coffee flavor. It deepens the overall chocolate notes and keeps the cake moist, making it ideal for chocolate lovers.
How do I ensure my cake stays moist?
Using both brown sugar and bourbon helps keep the cake moist. Additionally, avoid overbaking and make sure to test the cake with a toothpick a few minutes before the timer goes off to prevent dryness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that has xanthan gum for structure. Just be sure to use one that measures cup-for-cup to maintain the right texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cake recipe that feels truly special but doesn’t require complicated techniques, this Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It’s comforting, indulgent, and utterly delicious — perfect for celebrations or any day you want to treat yourself. Give it a try and watch as this cake becomes a staple in your baking repertoire!
Print
Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent Brown Butter Bourbon Chocolate Cake, combining the deep flavors of brown butter, bourbon, and cocoa into a moist, luscious dessert perfect for any special occasion or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Frosting
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons bourbon
- 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Brown Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter and cook it until it turns a golden brown color and releases a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix Sugars and Cocoa: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder. Pour in the hot coffee or hot water and stir until well blended and smooth.
- Add Eggs, Bourbon, and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to the sugar mixture until fully incorporated. Then add the bourbon and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Incorporate Brown Butter and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the browned butter to the wet mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and consistent.
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and sifted powdered sugar. Gradually add bourbon, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt, beating until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth or decorate as desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve and savor the rich blend of chocolate and bourbon flavors.
Notes
- Brown butter adds a nutty depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate taste.
- The bourbon contributes warmth and complexity but can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract if desired.
- Ensure the cake layers are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- To make ahead, bake the cake layers a day in advance and store wrapped tightly in the refrigerator.
- This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.
