Jamie Oliver’s Decadent Chocolate Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Rich, moist, and bursting with flavor, this cake combines simple ingredients to create a masterpiece that’s perfect for celebrations or just satisfying a chocolate craving. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make this indulgent dessert at home.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Rich chocolate flavor: The cake is made with real chocolate and cocoa, delivering an intense chocolatey experience.
- Moist and fluffy texture: Every bite melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfect balance of ingredients.
- Simple and straightforward: With easy-to-follow steps, even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results.
- Versatile for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or casual dessert, this cake fits the bill.
- Customizable toppings: Pair it with frosting, whipped cream, or fresh berries to suit your taste.
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Decadent Chocolate Cake?
This chocolate cake by Jamie Oliver is a rich and indulgent dessert made with high-quality chocolate, butter, and other classic ingredients. Known for its moist texture and irresistible flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for chocolate lovers.
Jamie Oliver Decadent Chocolate Cake Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 200g (7 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (7 oz) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 200g (7 oz) self-raising flour
- 50g (2 oz) cocoa powder
- 100ml (⅓ cup) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Frosting (Optional)
- 150g (5 oz) dark chocolate
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter
- 100ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons icing sugar
Other Recipes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Decadent Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Equipment
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens.
- Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Melt it over a saucepan of simmering water or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
- Beat the eggs into the butter mixture, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until smooth.
Step 6: Add the Melted Chocolate
- Gently fold in the melted dark chocolate, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl.
- Stir in the heavy cream and icing sugar until smooth and glossy.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Decadent Chocolate Cake
- Top with fresh berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a tangy contrast.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the rich chocolate flavor.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce: For an extra touch of indulgence, a caramel drizzle works wonders.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream: Light, airy cream balances the density of the cake.
- Sprinkle with nuts: Crushed hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans add a crunchy texture.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Decadent Chocolate Cake
- Use quality chocolate: Higher cocoa content ensures a richer flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense texture.
- Test for doneness early: Check the cake 5 minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
- Cool the cake completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the icing to melt.
- Store properly: Keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain its moist texture.
Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Decadent Chocolate Cake
- Add coffee: A teaspoon of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Incorporate orange zest: A citrusy twist pairs beautifully with dark chocolate.
- Use white chocolate frosting: For a striking contrast, top the cake with white chocolate icing.
- Add a liqueur kick: A splash of Baileys or Kahlúa in the batter adds depth.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Decadent Chocolate Cake?
- Keep it airtight: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for longer storage: Refrigerate the cake for up to a week, but bring it to room temperature before serving.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Decadent Chocolate Cake Leftovers?
- Use a microwave: Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey texture.
- Reheat in the oven: Wrap the cake in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve cold: Enjoy the cake straight from the fridge for a firmer texture.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
How can I make Jamie Oliver’s chocolate cake moist?
To ensure a moist chocolate cake, use high-quality ingredients such as dark chocolate and fresh eggs. Avoid overmixing the batter and check for doneness early to prevent overbaking. Adding a touch of milk or sour cream can also enhance the moisture.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for this cake?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. However, dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa is recommended for the richest taste.
Can I make this chocolate cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum to improve the texture.
How long can I store Jamie Oliver’s chocolate cake?
You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Decadent Chocolate Cake is a dessert that’s bound to impress. Its rich flavor, moist texture, and endless versatility make it a must-have recipe for any occasion. Bake it for your next celebration or simply to treat yourself—you won’t regret it!
PrintJamie Oliver Decadent Chocolate Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This chocolate cake by Jamie Oliver is a rich and indulgent dessert made with high-quality chocolate, butter, and other classic ingredients. Known for its moist texture and irresistible flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
-
- 200g (7 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
-
- 200g (7 oz) unsalted butter, softened
-
- 200g (7 oz) caster sugar
-
- 4 large eggs
-
- 200g (7 oz) self-raising flour
-
- 50g (2 oz) cocoa powder
-
- 100ml (⅓ cup) milk
-
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
- A pinch of salt
For the Frosting (Optional)
-
- 150g (5 oz) dark chocolate
-
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter
-
- 100ml (⅓ cup) heavy cream
-
- 2 tablespoons icing sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Equipment
-
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens.
-
- Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
-
- Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
-
- Melt it over a saucepan of simmering water or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
-
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
-
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
-
- Beat the eggs into the butter mixture, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
-
- In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
-
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until smooth.
Step 6: Add the Melted Chocolate
-
- Gently fold in the melted dark chocolate, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
-
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
-
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting (Optional)
-
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl.
-
- Stir in the heavy cream and icing sugar until smooth and glossy.
-
- Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides.