The Ultimate Guide to Making the Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake

The Ultimate Guide to Making the Famous Brick Street Chocolate Cake

If you’re a chocolate lover, you’ve probably heard of the legendary Brick Street Chocolate Cake. This decadent dessert is everything you dream of: a rich, dense chocolate cake with surprise ingredients and a to-die-for ganache icing that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Brick Street Chocolate Cake, from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions, and even some tips to ensure your cake turns out flawless.

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Why the Brick Street Chocolate Cake is Famous

The Brick Street Chocolate Cake has earned its reputation as one of the most indulgent chocolate cakes out there. What sets it apart is its unique combination of ingredients, including instant chocolate pudding mix and buttermilk, which give the cake its signature moist and dense texture. The addition of semi-sweet chocolate chips adds pockets of melted chocolate throughout, making every bite a heavenly experience. And let’s not forget the rich chocolate ganache icing that hardens slightly as it cools, creating a glossy, irresistible finish.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers!

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Ingredients for Brick Street Chocolate Cake

Before we dive into the instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results.

For the Cake:

• 2 cups sugar – Provides the perfect level of sweetness.
• 1 cup butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 3 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
• 2 1/2 cups cake flour – Creates a light and tender crumb.
• 1 cup baking cocoa (sifted) – The star ingredient for that deep chocolate flavor.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda – Helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup instant chocolate pudding mix (small box) – The secret to the cake’s moist texture.
• 2 1/4 cups buttermilk – Adds tanginess and keeps the cake tender.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melts into gooey pockets of chocolate.

For the Chocolate Icing:

• 1/2 cup water – Helps create a smooth ganache.
• 1/2 cup butter – Adds richness to the icing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup baking cocoa (sifted) – The base of the icing.
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing.
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream – Adjusts the consistency for a pourable glaze.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these steps to create your own Brick Street Chocolate Cake.

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your convection oven to 350°F (175°C). Note that this recipe is specifically designed for a convection oven, which circulates hot air for even baking. If you don’t have a convection oven, you may need to adjust the baking time and temperature.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sifted baking cocoa, baking soda, salt, and instant chocolate pudding mix.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
• Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.

3. Bake the Cake

• Grease a tube pan or angel food cake pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated convection oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it.

4. Make the Chocolate Icing

• In a saucepan, heat the water, butter, and vanilla over medium heat until the butter is melted.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sifted baking cocoa.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring until smooth.
• Add the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches your desired consistency. It should be pourable but thick enough to coat the cake.

5. Ice the Cake

• Once the cake has cooled, carefully remove it from the pan.
• Pour the icing over the cake, starting by filling the hole in the center and then spreading it over the top and sides.
• Allow the icing to set before serving. It will harden slightly as it cools, creating a beautiful glossy finish.

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The History of Brick Street Chocolate Cake

The Brick Street Chocolate Cake has a rich history that adds to its allure. While its exact origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, it’s widely believed that this cake gained its fame from a small bakery or café, possibly named “Brick Street,” where it was first served. Over time, the recipe was shared and adapted, eventually becoming a beloved classic in home kitchens and bakeries alike.

What makes this cake so special is its unique combination of ingredients and techniques. The addition of instant chocolate pudding mix and buttermilk sets it apart from traditional chocolate cakes, giving it an unparalleled moistness and depth of flavor. The use of a convection oven ensures even baking, resulting in a cake that’s perfectly cooked from edge to center. The ganache icing, with its glossy finish and rich taste, is the crowning glory that makes this cake unforgettable.

Over the years, the Brick Street Chocolate Cake has become a staple at celebrations, from birthdays to weddings. Its reputation for being a show-stopping dessert has only grown, thanks to its decadent flavor and impressive presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this cake is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients combined with a little bit of love and care.

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 Tips for Perfecting Your Brick Street Chocolate Cake

Baking the perfect Brick Street Chocolate Cake requires attention to detail and a few expert tips. Here’s how to ensure your cake turns out flawless every time:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature before you start. This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly, resulting in a uniform batter.
2. Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting the cake flour, baking cocoa, and powdered sugar removes lumps and aerates the ingredients, leading to a lighter, fluffier cake.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense and tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and then gently fold in the chocolate chips.
4. Grease Your Pan Thoroughly: To prevent the cake from sticking, generously grease your tube pan or angel food cake pan. You can also dust it with a light coating of cocoa powder for extra insurance.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a cake tester or toothpick to check if the cake is done. Insert it into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
6. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing it and applying the icing. This prevents the icing from melting and sliding off.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Brick Street Chocolate Cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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 Creative Variations of Brick Street Chocolate Cake

While the classic Brick Street Chocolate Cake is a masterpiece on its own, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this beloved dessert. Here are a few creative variations to try:

1. Add a Filling: Turn your cake into a layered masterpiece by adding a filling between the layers. Consider using chocolate mousse, raspberry jam, or even a peanut butter cream for a delightful surprise.
2. Incorporate Different Chips: While the recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can experiment with other types of chips. Try dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist, or even mint chocolate chips for a refreshing contrast.
3. Top with Fresh Fruit: Add a burst of freshness by topping your cake with fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries. The tartness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.
4. Add a Crunch: For a textural contrast, sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, over the icing. You can also add a layer of crushed cookies or toffee bits between the cake layers.
5. Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re catering to a gluten-free diet, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to add a binder, such as xanthan gum, to mimic the texture of traditional flour.
6. Experiment with the Icing: While the ganache icing is divine, you can try other frostings, such as cream cheese icing, whipped chocolate ganache, or even a salted caramel drizzle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular oven instead of a convection oven?

While a convection oven is recommended for this recipe, you can use a regular oven if necessary. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary, so start checking the cake for doneness around the 50-minute mark.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I freeze the Brick Street Chocolate Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Brick Street Chocolate Cake is more than just a dessert – it’s an experience. From the first bite to the last, you’ll be amazed by the rich, chocolatey flavor and the perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Final Thoughts

There’s no denying the magic of the Brick Street Chocolate Cake. With its rich, dense texture, surprise chocolate chips, and decadent ganache icing, it’s a dessert that stands out from the rest. By following this recipe and tips, you’ll be able to recreate this famous cake in your own kitchen. So why wait? Start baking today and treat yourself to a slice of chocolate heaven!