Last Updated on January 4, 2024
If you are a fan of Costco’s delicious chocolate cake, then you are in for a treat. We will be sharing with you an easy-to-follow recipe for a delicious, moist, and creamy Costco chocolate cake.
Making this recipe at home is fast and easy and will be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, let’s get started and learn how to make this delicious cake.
What is the Costco Chocolate Cake?
Costco, a retail giant known for its membership-based model and extensive range of products, offers a delectable treat that has become a symbol of indulgence for many: the famous Costco Chocolate Cake. This cake is a testament to Costco’s commitment to providing high-quality and delicious offerings to its members.
The Costco Chocolate Cake is a generously sized, multi-layered creation that caters to chocolate lovers with its rich and decadent profile. Each slice boasts moist layers of chocolate cake, separated by velvety chocolate mousse, and enveloped in a smooth, chocolatey frosting that adds an extra layer of sweetness.
What sets the Costco Chocolate Cake apart is not just its size but the quality of its ingredients. Costco is known for using premium ingredients, and this cake is no exception. The combination of high-quality chocolate, moist cake layers, and the luscious mousse filling creates a dessert experience that has garnered a dedicated following.
This cake’s popularity extends beyond its delicious taste; it has become a go-to choice for celebrations and special occasions. The Costco Chocolate Cake is often praised for its affordability, especially considering its size and the fact that it can serve a sizable group of people.
Why You’ll Love this Costco Chocolate Cake?
This Costco chocolate cake recipe is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make, delicious, and sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The cake is moist and creamy and has a delicious chocolate flavor. The creamy frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness. Plus, it is a great way to put a smile on everyone’s face.
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Ingredients
For Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is the main dry ingredient in the cake, providing structure and texture. It serves as the base for the cake batter.
- Hot Water, or Brewed Coffee: Hot water or coffee enhances the chocolate flavor in the cake. The heat helps dissolve the cocoa, intensifying its richness.
- Sugar:S ugar sweetens the cake, balancing the cocoa’s bitterness and contributing to the overall taste and texture.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake. It reacts with the baking soda for leavening and a tender crumb.
- Dutch-Processed Cocoa: Dutch-processed cocoa provides a deep, rich chocolate flavor and dark color to the cake. It is a key ingredient for the intense chocolate profile.
- Sour Cream, or Greek Yogurt: Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds richness and moisture to the cake. It contributes to the soft and velvety texture.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a leavening agent that helps the cake rise. It reacts with the acidic ingredients (buttermilk and cocoa) for a light and fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake, complementing the chocolate and adding a sweet and aromatic touch.
- Baking Powder: Baking powder is another leavening agent that contributes to the cake’s rise and fluffiness.
- Eggs, Large: Eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the cake. They contribute to the overall texture and stability.
- Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil adds moisture to the cake, ensuring a tender crumb. It also contributes to the cake’s richness.
- Sea Salt: Sea salt enhances the flavors in the cake, balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate.
- Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate adds depth and complexity to the chocolate flavor. It is likely melted and incorporated into the batter,
Frosting:
- Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter is the base for the frosting, providing a creamy and rich texture.
- Dutch-Processed Cocoa: Dutch-processed cocoa in the frosting maintains the intense chocolate theme and contributes to its dark color.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract in the frosting enhances the overall flavor, adding a sweet and aromatic note.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds tanginess and a smooth consistency to the frosting. It complements the sweetness and richness.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Heavy whipping cream lightens the frosting and contributes to its creamy texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting, providing a smooth and spreadable consistency.
- Salt: Salt in the frosting balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
For Ganache (Optional):
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Heavy whipping cream in the ganache adds richness and creaminess.
- Dark Chocolate Chips:Dark chocolate chips for the ganache create a glossy and decadent topping for the cake, adding an extra layer of chocolate flavor.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This ensures the cakes won’t stick and allows for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine hot water (or brewed coffee), buttermilk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Thoroughly mix these wet ingredients to form a smooth and cohesive base.
Step 3: Melt Dark Chocolate:
In a separate bowl, melt dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Introduce the melted chocolate into the wet ingredients, stirring until the mixture achieves a velvety consistency.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. This ensures an even distribution of dry ingredients and prevents lumps.
Step 5: Mix Batter:
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as it can affect the texture of the cake.
Step 6: Bake:
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the cakes are fully baked.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting:
While the cakes are baking, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together unsalted butter, Dutch-processed cocoa, vanilla extract, cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth and fluffy.
Step 8: Cool Cakes:
Allow the baked cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent the frosting from melting when applied.
Step 9: Frost the Cake:
Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost between the layers and over the top and sides with the prepared chocolate frosting. Ensure an even and generous application for a decadent appearance.
Step 10: Make Ganache (optional):
For an optional ganache topping, heat heavy whipping cream until it simmers, then pour it over dark chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the frosted cake.
Step 11: Chill (optional):
If the ganache is added, consider chilling the cake in the refrigerator for a short time to set the ganache, providing an additional layer of indulgence.
Step 12: Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice and serve this Costco-style chocolate cake. Enjoy the rich and indulgent flavors, perfect for gatherings or celebrations!
Step 13: Note:
Keep in mind that this recipe yields a large cake, making it ideal for special occasions. Adjust quantities accordingly if a smaller cake is desired.
Notes
• Make sure to use room-temperature ingredients when making this cake.
• If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you have reached the desired consistency.
• If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you have reached the desired consistency.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by combining 1 ¼ cups of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let stand for 5 minutes and then use as directed.
• To make sure the cake is fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake and make sure it comes out clean.
• For a richer flavor, you can add 1 cup of melted semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cake batter.
Storage Tips
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the cake fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to store it in an airtight container so that it will stay fresh.
Nutrition Information
This Costco chocolate cake has 618 calories per serving. It also contains 28 grams of fat, 89 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein, and 24 milligrams of cholesterol.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve the cake with fresh berries or whipped cream.
• Top the cake with chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
• Drizzle the cake with a melted chocolate ganache.
• Add a scoop of ice cream for a delicious treat.
• Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Top the cake with a marshmallow frosting.
What other substitute can I use in Costco Chocolate Cake?
If you don’t have all the ingredients for the cake, there are some substitutions you can make. Here are some substitutions you can use for the Costco chocolate cake recipe:
• For the eggs, you can replace them with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/2 cup of yogurt.
• For the buttermilk, you can replace it with 1/4 cup of sour cream or 1/4 cup of plain yogurt.
• For the vegetable oil, you can replace it with melted butter or coconut oil.
• For the cocoa powder, you can replace it with equal amounts of melted chocolate.
• For the powdered sugar, you can replace it with granulated sugar or agave syrup.
• For the butter, you can replace it with vegan butter or coconut oil.
Equipment
- Stand mixer/Mixing bowl
- baking sheet
Ingredients
For Cake:
- 2 cups of freshly brewed coffee a liquid symphony to awaken the senses
- 4 cups of golden ambrosial sugar the nectar of sweetness
- 2 cups of cultured buttermilk the creamy conductor of this batter orchestra
- 4 cups of versatile all-purpose flour the foundation of this culinary masterpiece
- 1 1/2 cups of Dutch-processed cocoa the deep, chocolatey soul of the cake
- 1 cup of luscious sour cream or the Greek yogurt twist for a tangy melody
- 4 teaspoons of baking soda the effervescent lift to every bite
- 4 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract the essence of aromatic elegance
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder the secret agent of fluffiness
- 6 large eggs the golden orbs of binding harmony
- 1 cup of vegetable oil the liquid gold that keeps it moist
- 2 teaspoons of sea salt harvested from the whispers of the ocean
- 8 ounces of dark chocolate the mysterious depth in every mouthful
For Frosting:
- 3 cups of Dutch-processed cocoa the velvety cloak of chocolaty luxury
- 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract the fragrant bridge to sweetness
- 16 ounces of cream cheese the creamy virtuoso in this frosting symphony
- 3 cups of unsalted butter the unsung hero of indulgence
- 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream the ethereal cloud to lighten the richness
- 12 ounces of powdered sugar the snowy dusting of sweetness
- 1 teaspoon of salt the invisible enhancer to balance the sweetness
For Ganache (optional):
- 1 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream the liquid cascade for ganache decadence
- 2 cups of dark chocolate chips the indulgent jewels in this optional crown
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine hot water (or brewed coffee), buttermilk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Melt Dark Chocolate:
- In a separate bowl, melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. Add the melted chocolate to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt.
Mix Batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare Frosting:
- While the cakes are baking, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together unsalted butter, Dutch-processed cocoa, vanilla extract, cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth and fluffy.
Cool Cakes:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frost the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost between the layers and over the top and sides with the chocolate frosting.
Make Ganache (optional):
- For an optional ganache topping, heat heavy whipping cream until it simmers, then pour it over dark chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring it over the frosted cake.
Chill (optional):
- If you’ve added ganache, you can chill the cake in the refrigerator for a short time to set the ganache.
Slice and Serve:
- Slice and serve this decadent Costco-style chocolate cake. Enjoy the rich and indulgent flavors!
Note:
- This recipe makes a large cake, so it’s perfect for gatherings or celebrations. Adjust quantities if needed for a smaller cake.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What kind of cake is Costco’s chocolate cake?
A1. Costco’s chocolate cake is a moist, decadent cake made with rich chocolate flavor and a creamy frosting.
Q2. How long can I store the Costco chocolate cake?
A2. The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the cake fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Q3. Is it possible to make this recipe without eggs?
A3. Yes, you can replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/2 cup of yogurt.
Q4. What can I use in place of buttermilk?
A4. You can replace the buttermilk with 1/4 cup of sour cream or 1/4 cup of plain yogurt.
Q5. Can I replace the cocoa powder with melted chocolate?
A5. Yes, you can replace the cocoa powder with equal amounts of melted chocolate.
Q6. What can I use in place of powdered sugar?
A6. You can replace the powdered sugar with granulated sugar or agave syrup.
Q7. What are some serving suggestions for the Costco chocolate cake?
A7. Some serving suggestions for the Costco chocolate cake include serving it with fresh berries or whipped cream, topping it with chopped nuts or chocolate chips, drizzling it with a melted chocolate ganache, adding a scoop of ice cream, serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and topping it with a marshmallow frosting.
Conclusion
Costco’s chocolate cake recipe is a delicious, moist, and creamy dessert that is sure to please. The recipe is easy to make and does not require any special ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious cake that is sure to bring smiles to your family and friends. So, if you are looking for a simple and delicious chocolate cake recipe, then try this Costco chocolate cake recipe. You won’t be disappointed.