Name: Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake: Indulge in Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Use fresh for best results.); 1 tsp Baking Soda (May replace with more baking powder.); 1 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 box Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix (Can substitute with 2 tablespoons Instant Clearjel.); 3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Dark cocoa can intensify flavor.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for more moisture.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with white sugar.); 3 large Eggs (Flax eggs for vegan option.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Can use milk and vinegar substitute.); 1 cup Brewed Coffee (Optional, can be omitted.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Melted butter can be substituted.); 1/4 cup Dark Corn Syrup (Brown sugar or honey can substitute.); 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract (Pure extract recommended.); 1/2 cup Salted Butter (Unsalted can be used.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Dark chocolate can be substituted.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half can substitute.); 1 tsp Pure Peppermint Extract (Select pure extract for best flavor.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sugar-free option is acceptable.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Use vegan for dairy-free.); 1/4 cup Shortening (Replace with more butter if desired.)

The air is filled with the scent of nostalgia—a rich chocolate aroma mingling with a hint of crisp peppermint. This Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake captures the essence of holiday baking and elevates it to a bakery-style delight. With each slice, you’ll indulge in layers of fudgy goodness, enveloped in a creamy peppermint buttercream that brings festive cheer to your gatherings. This recipe is not only a showstopper but also offers the versatility of ingredient substitutions and pan sizes, making it accessible for every home chef. Plus, its extra-moist texture means you can impress your guests without breaking a sweat. Are you ready to create a holiday centerpiece that will leave everyone wanting more?

Why is this cake a holiday must-try?

Indulgent Flavor: The Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint, creating a delightful holiday experience.

Simple Steps: The recipe is straightforward, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. You’ll feel like a professional without the stress!

Customizable: With options for gluten-free flour and vegan substitutions, everyone can join in on the festivities.

Showstopper Presentation: This cake not only tastes amazing but also makes a stunning centerpiece at gatherings, just like our Pumpkin Cupcakes Brown or Strawberry Shortcake Sushi.

Quick to Make: Bake ahead to save time on busy holiday days, ensuring you have more moments to celebrate.

Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure for a stable cake; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Powder – Ensures your cake rises beautifully; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Soda – Enhances the cake’s lift; can be replaced with more baking powder if necessary.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor profile of your cake.
Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix – Adds incredible moisture and softness to the cake; swap with 2 tablespoons Instant Clearjel if desired.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Contributes a deep, rich chocolate flavor; opting for dark cocoa will intensify the taste.
Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure to the cake; brown sugar creates a moist result, if used completely.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a lovely depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with white sugar if necessary.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add richness; for a vegan version, flax eggs can be used.
Buttermilk – Infuses the cake with moisture and tenderness; substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar (1 cup) if required.
Brewed Coffee – Deepens the chocolate flavor; it can be omitted if you prefer to avoid caffeine.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; replace it with melted butter for a richer taste.
Dark Corn Syrup – Ensures the cake retains its softness; brown sugar or honey can make good substitutes.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth; using pure vanilla extract will give the best flavor.

For the Frosting and Ganache

Salted Butter – Adds richness to both the cake and the frosting; unsalted butter can be used, just adjust the salt to your liking.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Delivers the desired fudgy texture; dark chocolate can be used for a more intense flavor.
Heavy Cream – Essential for the velvety ganache; half-and-half can substitute in a pinch.
Pure Peppermint Extract – Infuses your cake with delightful peppermint goodness; be sure to select pure extract for optimal flavor.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream frosting; you could use sugar-free powdered sugar if you prefer.
Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth and rich buttercream frosting; opt for vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Shortening – Stabilizes the buttercream; to soften, simply replace with more butter if you like.

Enjoy creating this Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake that brings the festive spirit to every gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake

Step 1: Prepare Cake Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it’s warming up, line a ¼ sheet pan with parchment paper and grease it lightly. This will ensure that your moist peppermint fudge cake releases easily after baking, making it a smooth transition to the cooling rack.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, chocolate pudding mix, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until evenly combined, ensuring that there are no lumps. This step is crucial for achieving a light and tender cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, brewed coffee, vegetable oil, dark corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well integrated. The wet mixture will bring moisture and richness to your moist peppermint fudge cake, so stir thoroughly to achieve an even consistency.

Step 4: Make Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together until smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat. Once melted, whisk this chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients, blending well to incorporate the rich flavors for your cake.

Step 5: Combine and Bake
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating that your cake is perfectly moist.

Step 6: Cool and Prepare Ganache
Once baked, remove your cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the ganache by heating heavy cream in a saucepan until just about to boil; pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and whisk until smooth—then mix in pure peppermint extract.

Step 7: Make Buttercream
In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and salted butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined, then stir in vanilla extract and a splash of peppermint extract. This will create the dreamy peppermint buttercream that beautifully complements your moist peppermint fudge cake.

Step 8: Assemble Cake
Once the cake is cooled, slice it in half horizontally if desired. Layer the ganache between the cake layers and then frost the top and sides with the peppermint buttercream. Drizzle additional ganache over the top and decorate with crushed candy canes for a festive touch—creating a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering!

Variations & Substitutions for Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake

Feel free to put your own spin on the recipe and explore these delightful variations for a truly personalized treat!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a deliciously moist cake that everyone can enjoy.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a compassionate twist. Imagine the joyous surprise on your guests’ faces when they taste a vegan delight!
Chocolate Lovers Delight: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra fudgy punch. If you can’t get enough of that gooey goodness, feel free to double the chocolate!
Minty Fresh: Enhance the mint experience by folding crushed peppermint candies into the batter before baking. Each slice will surprise you with little bursts of peppermint goodness!
Fruit Twist: Swap out the peppermint extract for orange or almond extract for a unique flavor profile; this adds a vibrant zing that can brighten up any occasion, just like our Coconut Cream Pancakes.
Frosting Variety: Try using a cream cheese-based frosting for a tangy addition, or make a simple whipped cream topping to lighten the dessert experience. Cream cheese frosting can elevate the cake with a touch of sophistication!
Boozy Decadence: Drizzle the ganache with a splash of peppermint schnapps for an adult-only indulgence that can bring some festive cheer to your gatherings. Just a hint of alcohol can take your cake to the next level!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter to create delightful texture and flavor contrasts. Pairing with the creamy frosting makes the cake not only scrumptious but also visually appealing!

With these variations, you’ll be able to create a Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake that speaks to your unique style and flavor preferences. Every twist invites a new way to celebrate the season!

What to Serve with Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake

Indulge in the ultimate holiday experience by pairing your cake with these delightful accompaniments that elevate every bite.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy, sweet contrast to the fudgy texture, enhancing the overall dessert experience. The slight chill of the ice cream complements the warm flavors of the cake beautifully.
Minty Hot Cocoa: Serve with a side of rich hot cocoa infused with peppermint. This cozy drink wraps you in warmth and ties in the festive minty flavor, creating a perfect post-meal treat.
Festive Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh berries and citrus fruits provides a refreshing palate cleanser amidst the decadence of your cake. The acidity of the fruits lifts the rich flavors, making each bite refreshing.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a soft texture that harmonizes well with the dense cake. A dollop on top or alongside lets the peppermint shine while offering a buttery finish.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: An elegant touch to your dessert spread, the sweet and slightly tart strawberries coated in chocolate complement the richness of the fudge cake, adding a playful element to your plate.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso by your side enhances the cake’s liquor-induced flavors, making for a delightful pairing that coffee lovers will truly appreciate.
Chocolate Mint Cookies: Elevate your dessert table further with cookies that echo the cake’s flavors. Their chewy texture and rich chocolaty taste make them perfect companions to your festive fudge delight!
Holiday Sparkling Cider: For a refreshing drink option, serve your cake with bubbly sparkling cider. It brings a cheerful touch to your gathering while balancing the sweetness of the cake with its crispness.

Make Ahead Options

Get ahead of your holiday baking with the Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain moisture. The ganache can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before layering. To keep the peppermint buttercream creamy and fresh, prepare it the same day you plan to frost the cake. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cake with the ganache and buttercream, and enjoy a luscious dessert without the last-minute stress. Just perfect for busy home cooks!

Expert Tips for Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure your cake rises perfectly, providing that light, airy texture we all enjoy.
Freezing Layers: For extra moistness, freeze your cake layers for about an hour before assembling. This not only helps with cutting but also locks in moisture until serving.
Measuring Flour: Use a kitchen scale to measure your flour for utmost accuracy. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake instead of the desired extra-moist texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and buttermilk to reach room temperature before mixing. This promotes better emulsification and leads to a more uniformly baked cake.
Mixing Technique: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can encourage gluten development, resulting in a tough cake.
Chilling Ganache: If your ganache is too runny, let it cool in the fridge for a bit before applying to ensure a thicker, beautifully drizzling layer on your Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake.

How to Store and Freeze Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the cake wrapped in plastic for up to 5 days; allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month; this preserves the delicious flavors of the moist peppermint fudge cake.

Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds; this will bring back the fudginess and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are fresh?
Absolutely! To ensure freshness, check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda. When it comes to flour, look for a clean, free-flowing texture without clumps or any signs of infestation. If your cocoa powder or chocolate has a dull color or has formed hard lumps, it may be time to replace it.

What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
For optimal moisture retention, store your Moist Peppermint Fudge Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 5 days, remembering to let it come to room temperature before serving to enjoy that fudgy texture fully.

Can I freeze the cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in an airtight freezer-safe container. It’ll stay delicious for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

What if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it might be due to overbaking or too much flour. Ensure you measure the flour using a kitchen scale, as packing it can lead to too much being added. If this happens, a delicious remedy is to brush the cooled cake layers lightly with simple syrup. Mix equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, and then brush generously for that extra moisture boost!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This cake can be made gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Additionally, for a vegan option, use flax eggs in place of regular eggs, and opt for dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives in the frosting. Just be sure to check ingredient labels to avoid allergens that may affect your guests.