Heart-Topped Chocolate Pudding Cake

A delightful chocolate pudding cake topped with shiny chocolate hearts, perfect for sharing on special occasions or enjoying solo.

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American, Baking

Keyword Baked Dessert, Chocolate Cake, Indulgent Treat, Pudding Cake, Valentine's Day

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200 g dark chocolate, chopped Use a high-quality bar (at least 60% cocoa).
100 g butter Unsalted is best.
1/2 cup sugar Granulated sugar works well.
3 large eggs Bring to room temperature.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure.
1/4 cup cocoa powder Use Dutch-processed for best flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract Essential for flavor.
1 pinch salt Enhances flavors.

For the Ganache

200 g dark chocolate, chopped
200 ml heavy cream
1 tbsp butter For a glossy finish.

For Topping

Chocolate heart pieces Store-bought or made in fun molds.
Chocolate cookie crumbs or cake crumbs For added texture.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease your favorite round or bundt mold.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and the first batch of dark chocolate together until creamy.
In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy, then add vanilla.
Gently fold the chocolate-butter mixture into the egg-sugar base. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt; fold until just combined.

Baking

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.

Ganache Preparation

Heat the cream until just steaming, then pour over the second batch of chopped dark chocolate and let sit for two minutes.
Stir in the tablespoon of butter for a glossy finish, and let cool until pourable.

Decoration

Once the cake is cool, place it on a plate and pour the ganache over the top.
Sprinkle with chocolate cookie crumbs and place chocolate heart pieces on top.

Serving

Chill for 20 minutes for neat slices or serve warm for a molten dessert.

Notes

Quality chocolate is key for the best flavor. Avoid overbaking for that perfect pudding texture. Chill the ganache briefly if it’s too runny for beautiful drips.