Bake the Best Chocolate Raspberry Cake Ever

Bake the Best Chocolate Raspberry Cake Ever

Desserts 5 Last Update: Jan 12, 2026 Created: Jan 06, 2026
Bake the Best Chocolate Raspberry Cake Ever Bake the Best Chocolate Raspberry Cake Ever
  • Serves: 12 People
  • Prepare Time: 60 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Calories: -
  • Difficulty: Medium
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Get ready to bake a showstopper that tastes like it came straight from a European bakery: our Belarusian Raspberry Chocolate Ganache Cake! Imagine tall, tender layers of deep, rich chocolate cake, perfectly balanced with a vibrant, tangy raspberry filling, all enrobed in a glossy, real chocolate ganache. This isn't just any chocolate raspberry cake; it's an experience, designed to delight both beginners and experienced bakers with its simple yet sophisticated charm.
You'll absolutely fall in love with this cake for so many reasons:
Deep, rich chocolate layers that stay incredibly moist for days, thanks to a special ingredient.
A bright, tangy raspberry layer that cuts through the richness, offering a burst of fresh fruit flavor.
Real chocolate ganache as the main finish – no bland, cocoa-only frosting here!
A simple, repeatable method for one perfect batter, one delightful filling, and one luscious ganache.
It feels like a professional European bakery cake but uses standard US ingredients and pans, making it totally achievable in your home kitchen.
What gives this particular chocolate and raspberry cake its unique "Belarusian-style" flair? Eastern Europe, including Belarus, has a deep appreciation for forest berries like raspberries and currants, often incorporating them into their desserts alongside rich dairy like sour cream. This cake beautifully mirrors that tradition: we use sour cream in the chocolate cake batter for incredible tenderness and moisture, feature a strong, jammy raspberry layer, and finish it with a clean, elegant ganache coating instead of a heavy buttercream. While this is a modern, home-baker-friendly adaptation, it truly captures the essence of that beloved baking culture. Prepare to impress everyone with this incredible chocolate ganache cake!

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Make the Raspberry LayerCombine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Add the fresh or frozen raspberries and lemon juice. If using frozen raspberries, there's no need to thaw them first.Cook to Thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the raspberries have broken down and the mixture is thick and glossy. It should be thick enough to spoon and mound, not runny.Optional Seed Straining: If you prefer a seedless filling, press the warm mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, using a spatula to extract as much pulp as possible. Discard the seeds.Cool Completely: Stir in the vanilla or raspberry liqueur, if using. Transfer the raspberry filling to a heatproof bowl, cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and cool completely. You can refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes for a quicker chill. It must be cold and firm before assembly.Make the Chocolate Cake BatterPreheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper circles for easy release.Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, dark cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the neutral oil, eggs, sour cream, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth.Combine & Hydrate: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed with an electric mixer, or by hand with a whisk, until just combined (do not overmix). The batter will be thick. Carefully pour in the hot coffee or hot water, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and pourable. It will be fairly thin – this is normal and contributes to the cake's moistness.Optional Chocolate: If using, gently fold in the finely chopped dark chocolate chips.Bake & Cool the LayersDivide Batter: Divide the chocolate cake batter evenly among the three prepared 8-inch pans.Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter). The tops should spring back gently when lightly touched.Cool: Let the cake layers cool in their pans on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert them onto the wire racks, remove the pans and parchment paper, and allow the cakes to cool completely to room temperature. This can take 1-2 hours.Leveling Tip: If your cake tops have domed slightly, use a serrated knife to carefully level them once completely cool. This creates even layers for stacking.Make the Chocolate GanachePrepare Chocolate: Place the finely chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges (do not boil).Pour & Rest: Immediately pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.Whisk to Smooth: After 5 minutes, gently whisk the mixture starting from the center and working your way out, until it's completely smooth, shiny, and emulsified. If using, whisk in the optional butter and liqueur/coffee.Cool for Consistency: Let the ganache cool at room temperature, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency for coating.
    1. For a soft drip or glossy top, use it slightly warmer and runnier (but not hot).
    2. For a thicker coating that holds its shape better, let it cool for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's spreadable but still pourable. It should be "ready for pouring" when it slowly drizzles off a spoon. If it's "too hot," it will be very thin; if "too cool," it will be too stiff.
    Assemble the CakeFirst Layer: Place your first cooled cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand."Glue" Layer (Optional): Spread a very thin layer of ganache (or a light smear of cake crumbs mixed with a tiny bit of ganache) on top of the first layer. This helps "glue" the cake to the plate and prevent sliding.Ganache Border: If you want extra security against the raspberry filling leaking, pipe or spread a low border of ganache around the edge of the first cake layer.Raspberry Filling: Spoon half of the chilled, firm raspberry filling into the center of the border (or directly onto the cake if not using a border), and gently spread it evenly, making sure to stay within the border.Second Layer & Repeat: Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Repeat the ganache border and remaining raspberry filling.Final Layer & Chill: Place the final cake layer on top and press gently to level it.Settle & Firm: Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This allows the filling to firm up and the layers to settle, making it easier to frost.Coat with Ganache & DecoratePour Ganache: Retrieve the cake from the fridge. If your ganache has cooled too much and become stiff, warm it gently in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler until it's pourable again. Pour the thicker ganache onto the top center of the cake.Smooth & Drip: Using an offset spatula, gently push the ganache toward the edges, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides. Continue to spread and smooth the top and sides until evenly coated.Set & Garnish: Let the ganache set slightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.Decorate: Arrange fresh raspberries in a nest or cluster on top. Add optional grated chocolate, chocolate curls, or toasted nuts.Final Chill & Serve: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully set the ganache. For the best texture and flavor, bring the cake toward room temperature for 20-30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Bake the Best Chocolate Raspberry Cake Ever



  • Serves: 12 People
  • Prepare Time: 60 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Calories: -
  • Difficulty: Medium

Get ready to bake a showstopper that tastes like it came straight from a European bakery: our Belarusian Raspberry Chocolate Ganache Cake! Imagine tall, tender layers of deep, rich chocolate cake, perfectly balanced with a vibrant, tangy raspberry filling, all enrobed in a glossy, real chocolate ganache. This isn't just any chocolate raspberry cake; it's an experience, designed to delight both beginners and experienced bakers with its simple yet sophisticated charm.
You'll absolutely fall in love with this cake for so many reasons:
Deep, rich chocolate layers that stay incredibly moist for days, thanks to a special ingredient.
A bright, tangy raspberry layer that cuts through the richness, offering a burst of fresh fruit flavor.
Real chocolate ganache as the main finish – no bland, cocoa-only frosting here!
A simple, repeatable method for one perfect batter, one delightful filling, and one luscious ganache.
It feels like a professional European bakery cake but uses standard US ingredients and pans, making it totally achievable in your home kitchen.
What gives this particular chocolate and raspberry cake its unique "Belarusian-style" flair? Eastern Europe, including Belarus, has a deep appreciation for forest berries like raspberries and currants, often incorporating them into their desserts alongside rich dairy like sour cream. This cake beautifully mirrors that tradition: we use sour cream in the chocolate cake batter for incredible tenderness and moisture, feature a strong, jammy raspberry layer, and finish it with a clean, elegant ganache coating instead of a heavy buttercream. While this is a modern, home-baker-friendly adaptation, it truly captures the essence of that beloved baking culture. Prepare to impress everyone with this incredible chocolate ganache cake!

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Make the Raspberry LayerCombine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Add the fresh or frozen raspberries and lemon juice. If using frozen raspberries, there's no need to thaw them first.Cook to Thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the raspberries have broken down and the mixture is thick and glossy. It should be thick enough to spoon and mound, not runny.Optional Seed Straining: If you prefer a seedless filling, press the warm mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, using a spatula to extract as much pulp as possible. Discard the seeds.Cool Completely: Stir in the vanilla or raspberry liqueur, if using. Transfer the raspberry filling to a heatproof bowl, cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and cool completely. You can refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes for a quicker chill. It must be cold and firm before assembly.Make the Chocolate Cake BatterPreheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper circles for easy release.Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, dark cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the neutral oil, eggs, sour cream, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth.Combine & Hydrate: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed with an electric mixer, or by hand with a whisk, until just combined (do not overmix). The batter will be thick. Carefully pour in the hot coffee or hot water, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and pourable. It will be fairly thin – this is normal and contributes to the cake's moistness.Optional Chocolate: If using, gently fold in the finely chopped dark chocolate chips.Bake & Cool the LayersDivide Batter: Divide the chocolate cake batter evenly among the three prepared 8-inch pans.Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter). The tops should spring back gently when lightly touched.Cool: Let the cake layers cool in their pans on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert them onto the wire racks, remove the pans and parchment paper, and allow the cakes to cool completely to room temperature. This can take 1-2 hours.Leveling Tip: If your cake tops have domed slightly, use a serrated knife to carefully level them once completely cool. This creates even layers for stacking.Make the Chocolate GanachePrepare Chocolate: Place the finely chopped dark or semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges (do not boil).Pour & Rest: Immediately pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.Whisk to Smooth: After 5 minutes, gently whisk the mixture starting from the center and working your way out, until it's completely smooth, shiny, and emulsified. If using, whisk in the optional butter and liqueur/coffee.Cool for Consistency: Let the ganache cool at room temperature, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency for coating.
    1. For a soft drip or glossy top, use it slightly warmer and runnier (but not hot).
    2. For a thicker coating that holds its shape better, let it cool for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's spreadable but still pourable. It should be "ready for pouring" when it slowly drizzles off a spoon. If it's "too hot," it will be very thin; if "too cool," it will be too stiff.
    Assemble the CakeFirst Layer: Place your first cooled cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand."Glue" Layer (Optional): Spread a very thin layer of ganache (or a light smear of cake crumbs mixed with a tiny bit of ganache) on top of the first layer. This helps "glue" the cake to the plate and prevent sliding.Ganache Border: If you want extra security against the raspberry filling leaking, pipe or spread a low border of ganache around the edge of the first cake layer.Raspberry Filling: Spoon half of the chilled, firm raspberry filling into the center of the border (or directly onto the cake if not using a border), and gently spread it evenly, making sure to stay within the border.Second Layer & Repeat: Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Repeat the ganache border and remaining raspberry filling.Final Layer & Chill: Place the final cake layer on top and press gently to level it.Settle & Firm: Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This allows the filling to firm up and the layers to settle, making it easier to frost.Coat with Ganache & DecoratePour Ganache: Retrieve the cake from the fridge. If your ganache has cooled too much and become stiff, warm it gently in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler until it's pourable again. Pour the thicker ganache onto the top center of the cake.Smooth & Drip: Using an offset spatula, gently push the ganache toward the edges, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides. Continue to spread and smooth the top and sides until evenly coated.Set & Garnish: Let the ganache set slightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.Decorate: Arrange fresh raspberries in a nest or cluster on top. Add optional grated chocolate, chocolate curls, or toasted nuts.Final Chill & Serve: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully set the ganache. For the best texture and flavor, bring the cake toward room temperature for 20-30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Recipe Nutritional Values

The following nutritional values are per serving (one piece of cake)

Calories

~450-550 kcal

Carbohydrates

~55-65g

Protein

~5-7g

Fat

~25-35g

Additional Information

  • serving, based on 16 servings) Calories: ~450-550 kcal Carbohydrates: ~55-65g Protein: ~5-7g Fat: ~25-35g Additional Information: This cake is an indulgent treat, perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
  • This cake is an indulgent treat, perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
  • The richness comes from quality chocolate and wholesome dairy, designed for flavor, not diet.
  • Serving with fresh berries can add a boost of vitamins and fiber.

Recipe Success Tips

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

  • Don't be afraid to experiment or adapt based on what you have on hand!
  • Raspberries:
    • Fresh vs. Frozen: Both work beautifully for the raspberry filling! If using frozen, there's no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them to the saucepan as directed.
    • Sweetness/Tartness: If your raspberries are particularly tart, you might add an extra tablespoon or two of sugar to the filling. For more tartness, a little extra lemon juice can brighten things up.
  • Dairy Options:
    • Milk: While whole milk provides richness, you can use 2% milk in the cake batter if that's what you have. Buttermilk is excellent for a tender crumb due to its acidity.
    • Ganache Cream: Heavy cream (at least 36% fat) is ideal for ganache. If absolutely necessary, you can use half-and-half, but be aware that the ganache might be slightly thinner and less stable. You may need to adjust the chocolate-to-cream ratio slightly by adding a bit more chocolate.
  • Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect here. If you only have cake flour, you can use it for an even finer, more tender crumb, but the structure provided by all-purpose is excellent.
  • Eggs: This recipe is not designed as eggless. Eggs provide crucial structure and richness. If you need an eggless option, it's best to seek out a recipe specifically formulated for that.
  • Ganache Ratios & Troubleshooting:
    • Simple Ratio: A good starting point for a versatile ganache is roughly equal parts cream and dark chocolate by weight (e.g., 1:1). For a thicker coating, slightly increase the chocolate (e.g., 1.25:1 chocolate to cream). For a thinner drip, you might slightly increase the cream. Higher percentage chocolate (70%+) will result in a thicker ganache when cooled.
    • Too Thin/Runny: If your ganache is too thin, it likely needs more chocolate. Finely chop a small amount of extra chocolate (1-2 ounces) and stir it into the warm ganache. Let it sit for a few minutes to melt, then whisk gently until smooth. Repeat if necessary.
    • Too Thick/Stiff: If your ganache has become too thick or stiff, warm it gently in short bursts in the microwave (5-10 seconds at a time) or over a double boiler, whisking in 1-2 teaspoons of warm heavy cream until it reaches the desired consistency.
    • Split/Oily/Grainy: This happens when the emulsion breaks. Don't panic! Whisk vigorously with a splash of warm milk or cream. If it's still rough, an immersion blender can work wonders to re-emulsify it into a smooth, shiny consistency.
    • Set Too Hard on the Cake: Ganache sets firm in the fridge. For the best eating experience, let slices sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving to allow the ganache to soften slightly and the flavors to fully bloom.

Cultural Variations

  • Embrace the Eastern European spirit with these serving and flavor ideas, all within the framework of this amazing dark chocolate cake recipe:
  • Orange Zest Delight: For a beautiful orange-chocolate-raspberry vibe, add 1-2 teaspoons of finely grated orange zest to the cake batter or the ganache.
  • Liqueur or Coffee Boost: Swap a tablespoon of the heavy cream in the ganache for a raspberry liqueur (like Chambord), a coffee liqueur (like Kahlua), or even strong, cooled espresso for an extra layer of flavor complexity.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds between the cake and raspberry layers for a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor.
  • Belarusian Café Feel: Serve individual slices with a spoonful of lightly sweetened sour cream or crème fraîche on the side. The tanginess perfectly complements the rich chocolate and sweet raspberries, reminiscent of traditional Eastern European desserts.

Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions

  • This raspberry birthday cake is fantastic for making ahead, allowing you to enjoy the process without last-minute stress.

Simple Timeline

  • 2 Days Before:
    • Bake the chocolate cake layers. Once completely cool, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
    • Make the raspberry filling. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • 1 Day Before or Morning Of:
    • Make the chocolate ganache.
    • Assemble the cake according to the instructions.
    • Chill the assembled cake to set the ganache.
  • Serving Day:
    • Remove the cake from the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before slicing to allow it to come to a more optimal serving temperature, ensuring the ganache and cake are at their best texture.

How to Store the Cake

  • Refrigerator: Store the assembled cake, loosely covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The ganache will set firm in the fridge but will soften beautifully at room temperature.
  • Freezer:
    • Whole Cake: Once the ganache is fully set, place the entire cake in the freezer for about an hour to firm up completely. Then, wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature to serve.
    • Slices: For easy treats, slice the cake, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw individual slices at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Kitchen Tools

Tools and ingredients that can help you cook more easily and consistently.

Time-Saving Tools & Ingredients

Problem: Constantly scraping down bowls and unevenly mixing ingredients by hand can be tiring and lead to lumps.
Agitate: Lumpy batter or poorly incorporated ingredients can ruin the texture of your cake and ganache, making your hard work less rewarding.
Solution: A good whisk (or even an electric hand mixer for the batter) ensures all your dry and wet ingredients are perfectly combined, creating a smooth, airy batter and a silky ganache with minimal effort.

Time-Saving Tools & Ingredients

Problem: Spreading frosting evenly and achieving a professional-looking finish with just a regular knife is incredibly difficult.
Agitate: Uneven layers and messy ganache can make your cake look homemade in a way you didn't intend, detracting from its beauty.
Solution: An offset spatula is a game-changer for spreading fillings and ganache smoothly across your cake layers and sides. Its angled blade keeps your knuckles out of the frosting, giving you precise control and a much cleaner finish.

Time-Saving Tools & Ingredients

Problem: Measuring wet ingredients accurately, especially sticky ones like oil or sour cream, can be messy and lead to inaccurate proportions.
Agitate: Inaccurate measurements can throw off the delicate balance of your recipe, resulting in cakes that are too dry, too dense, or don't rise properly.
Solution: Investing in liquid measuring cups (with a spout for easy pouring) and using digital kitchen scales for dry ingredients (especially flour and chocolate for ganache) ensures precision, consistency, and less cleanup.

Time-Saving Tools & Ingredients

Problem: Dealing with raspberry seeds can be a nuisance, especially if you prefer a perfectly smooth filling.
Agitate: While not a deal-breaker, seeds can sometimes interrupt the smooth texture of your cake, and straining them by hand can be time-consuming.
Solution: A fine mesh strainer makes quick work of removing seeds from your raspberry filling, giving you a velvety smooth layer without much fuss. It's also great for sifting dry ingredients!

Calories per Ingredient

Click any ingredient for detailed nutritional information:

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