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
Scale
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.
