Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake

Indulging in a rich, velvety chocolate cake is an experience that transcends mere dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that leaves a lasting impression. This Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a show-stopping treat. With its moist crumb, decadent chocolate flavor, and a hint of tanginess from the sour cream, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why It’s My Go-To

There are countless chocolate cake recipes out there, but what sets this Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake apart is its incredible moisture and depth of flavor. The sour cream not only adds richness but also keeps the cake tender for days. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a fancy dinner party. It’s easy to make, looks stunning with its Bundt shape, and the taste is nothing short of divine. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making it a versatile dessert for any time of day.

What to Buy

To make the Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients. Here’s a handy shopping list:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
• 1/3 cup Dutch process cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pan
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 tablespoons corn syrup
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for the ganache)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right gear on hand:

• Bundt pan – for that iconic shape!
• Mixing bowls – a large one for the batter and a smaller one for the ganache.
• Whisk – for combining dry ingredients.
• Spatula – for folding in ingredients and scraping the bowl.
• Measuring cups and spoons – precision is key in baking!
• Cooling rack – to cool the cake after baking.
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate.

Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get started on making this delicious Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your Bundt pan generously with unsalted butter and dust it with flour, tapping out the excess. This will help the cake release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Boil Water

In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Sour Cream

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the warm water. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Ganache

While the cake is cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a double boiler or microwave, melt the bittersweet chocolate with the heavy cream and granulated sugar. Stir until smooth and glossy, then add the corn syrup for a glossy finish.

Step 11: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for that beautiful Bundt cake presentation.

In-Season Swaps

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake with the following seasonal swaps:

• For summer, add fresh berries on top or serve with a berry compote.
• In the fall, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm flavor profile.
• In winter, a sprinkle of peppermint extract in the ganache can provide a festive touch.
• For spring, try incorporating citrus zest into the batter for a refreshing twist.

Notes on Ingredients

Here are a few notes regarding the ingredients:

• Unsalted Butter: Allows you to control the saltiness of the cake.
• Dutch Process Cocoa Powder: This gives the cake a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both options add moisture and a slight tanginess.
• Bittersweet Chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate for the ganache for the best flavor.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake can be stored for later enjoyment:

• Refrigerate: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter ganache. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes better the day after it’s made as the flavors have time to meld. Just store it properly as mentioned above.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries for a delightful contrast.

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making this Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake, it’s time to dig in! The cake is rich, moist, and bursting with chocolate flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. So grab a slice, pour a cup of your favorite beverage, and enjoy the delightful experience that this Chocolate Sour Cream Bundt Cake offers. Happy baking!