Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsV. MertzChocolate Cake Recipe

Chocolate Cake Recipe

Inspired by V. Mertz
Time1h 20m
Serves12

Rich chocolate cake with a molten center.

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Ingredients

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Cake Batter

Molten Center

Method

Cake Preparation

  1. 1

    Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well combined.

  3. 3

    Combine Wet Ingredients

    In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

  4. 4

    Combine Mixtures

    Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.

  5. 5

    Bake the Cake

    Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Molten Center Preparation

  1. 6

    Melt Chocolate and Butter

    While the cake is baking, combine the dark chocolate and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.

Assembly

  1. 7

    Create Molten Center

    Once the cakes are out of the oven and cooled for about 10 minutes, carefully slice the top off one cake layer to create a flat surface. On top of this layer, pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture, spreading it evenly.

  2. 8

    Stack Layers

    Place the second cake layer on top of the first layer with the molten center. Allow the cake to set for a few minutes.

  3. 9

    Serve

    Slice the cake and serve warm, allowing the molten center to flow out. Enjoy!

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