Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Moist, Rich & Easy to Make

Chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting is hands-down one of my all-time favorites—and trust me, I’ve baked my fair share of cakes. There’s just something extra special about the way the rich, fudgy cake melts into that tangy, creamy frosting. The first time I made it, it was for a last-minute birthday celebration, and by the end of the night, not a single crumb was left. That’s when I knew I’d found a forever recipe.

What makes it so unforgettable? It’s that beautiful contrast: the deep chocolatey richness of the cake against the smooth, slightly tangy cream cheese topping. It’s bold but balanced, indulgent without being too sweet—and every bite keeps you coming back for more.

In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make this classic chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting from scratch, just like I do when I want something that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy. I’ll share tips on choosing the best cocoa, keeping your frosting thick and luscious, and even adding fun twists if you’re feeling creative.

Why Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Is a Classic

A Flavor Combo That Never Gets Old

There’s a reason this pairing has stood the test of time. The deep, velvety chocolate cake meets the tangy richness of cream cheese in a way that just works. It’s not overly sweet, not too heavy—just the perfect balance of indulgence and elegance. I’ve made chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting for birthdays, cozy dinners, and even “just because,” and it always hits the right note.

The Perfect Choice for Every Occasion

Whether you’re baking to impress or just having a chill weekend in the kitchen, chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting fits the moment. You can go all out with piped frosting and chocolate shavings, or keep it simple with a smooth swoosh of cream cheese goodness. It works beautifully as a classic layer cake, a sheet cake, or even as cupcakes—whatever suits your mood or event.

Why More People Are Choosing Cream Cheese Over Buttercream

While buttercream will always have a place in the baking world, cream cheese frosting is having its well-deserved moment—especially with chocolate cake. It’s naturally tangy, spreads like a dream, and brings just the right touch of sophistication. Plus, it’s lighter than buttercream and has that velvety texture that feels indulgent without being too rich.

Once you try chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting, you might not go back. It’s the kind of frosting that makes people ask for seconds—and maybe even the recipe.

🍫 Craving more ways to enjoy chocolate beyond a classic chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting? Try our Pistachio Chocolate Bar — a crunchy, nutty, sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or gifting!

Making the perfect chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting starts with using the right ingredients. The goal is a soft, moist crumb and a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with a tangy, silky-smooth frosting.

Here’s what you’ll need to make chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting.

🍫 Must-Have Ingredients for the Chocolate Cake

🧁 Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Frosting

A good cream cheese frosting should be smooth, pipeable, and not overly sweet. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Full-fat block cream cheese (8 oz) – Always use block-style cream cheese, not spreadable tubs
• Unsalted butter (softened) – Helps the frosting whip up light and creamy
• Powdered sugar – Creates structure and sweetness
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out flavor
• Pinch of salt – Balances the tang and sweetness

❄️ Don’t forget to let the cream cheese and butter come to room temperature for the smoothest results.

Now that your pantry is stocked and prepped, you’re ready to bake!

🍉 Looking for a refreshing drink to pair with your chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting? This Watermelon Mocktail is fruity, fizzy, and the perfect balance to rich, decadent desserts.

How to Make the Chocolate Cake from Scratch

If you want your chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting to be moist, rich, and never dry, this step-by-step guide will help you get there. The secret lies in how you mix the batter, choose your cocoa, and time your bake.

This section will walk you through the entire cake-making process—from whisking the dry ingredients to pulling perfectly baked layers out of the oven.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Espresso powder (optional but recommended)

The espresso powder brings out the depth of chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

Whisk everything together thoroughly to remove any lumps and ensure even distribution.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:

• Eggs
• Buttermilk or whole milk
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract
• Coffee or hot water

Whisk until smooth. The hot liquid helps the cocoa bloom and creates a rich, smooth batter.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry, whisking or mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing—it can make the cake dense.

🎂 Want to make it extra rich? Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips before pouring the batter into the pans.

Step 4: Bake to Moist Perfection

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and line two or three 8-inch round cake pans.
• Divide the batter evenly between pans.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs—not wet batter.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Now that your cake layers are baked and cooling, it’s time to move on to the star of the show—the frosting.

🍫 Want more baking inspiration? Check out our 4-Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe — simple, moist, and always a hit alongside chocolate-based treats.

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting That’s Not Runny

A chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting is only as good as its frosting. And let’s be real—nobody wants a thin, slide-off-the-cake frosting mess. The goal? A smooth, thick, pipeable cream cheese frosting that holds its shape and balances the rich cake with a tangy finish.

Here’s how to make chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting right every time.

Step 1: Use Full-Fat Block Cream Cheese

For best results, skip the tubs and always use full-fat block cream cheese (8 oz). Spreadable cream cheese contains extra moisture, which can make your frosting too soft or runny.

🧊 Let the cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free base.

Step 2: Get the Cream Cheese-to-Butter Ratio Right

The perfect ratio for stability and flavor is:

• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

This balance gives the frosting richness, structure, and a mild tang.

Step 3: Sweeten with Powdered Sugar Only

Powdered sugar (also called confectioners’ sugar) provides texture, sweetness, and structure. Start with:

• 2½ to 3½ cups powdered sugar, sifted for smoothness

Add gradually and taste as you go. For thicker frosting, you can go up to 4 cups. Too sweet? Add a pinch of salt or a little lemon juice to cut the sweetness without changing the texture.

Step 4: Add Flavor Boosters

To elevate the flavor and balance the sweetness, try:

• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: ½ tsp almond extract, 1 tsp lemon zest, or a touch of cinnamon

These simple additions round out the flavor, especially when paired with the rich cocoa base of your chocolate cake.

Step 5: Chill It Before Frosting

If your frosting feels soft after mixing, don’t panic. Cover it and chill for 15–20 minutes. It will firm up just enough to spread or pipe easily.

Want bakery-style swirls or rosettes? Chill the frosting, transfer to a piping bag with a large tip, and decorate straight from the fridge.

Your frosting is now smooth, pipeable, and packed with flavor—ready to complement your rich chocolate cake.

🎂 Want to explore more frosting-friendly bakes?
Try our Maple Donut Recipe — it’s topped with a luscious glaze and pairs perfectly with creamy frostings like this.

Assembly – Frosting and Layering Like a Pro

You’ve baked a rich, moist chocolate cake. Your cream cheese frosting is thick, tangy, and perfectly whipped. Now it’s time to bring it all together.

Assembling your chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting the right way ensures it not only tastes amazing but also looks picture-perfect. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Step 1: Cool the Cake Completely

Never frost a warm cake—trust us. It melts the frosting and ruins the texture.

Here’s how to prep it for assembly:

• Let the layers cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour
• For ultra-clean frosting, chill the layers in the fridge for 30 minutes before frosting
• Wrap cooled layers in plastic wrap if assembling later

Cold layers make frosting easier, prevent crumbs, and help create sharp edges.

Step 2: Level the Layers

Use a serrated knife or cake leveler to trim any domed tops off the cake layers. This helps them stack evenly and prevents sliding.

Pro Tip: Save the scraps for cake pops or to crumble over ice cream.

Step 3: Apply a Crumb Coat

A crumb coat is a thin layer of frosting that traps loose crumbs and gives your final coat a clean, smooth finish.

How to do it:

• Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting over the entire cake
• Chill for 15–30 minutes to set
• Then frost with the remaining frosting

Step 4: Stack and Frost the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on your cake stand or serving plate
2. Spread a thick, even layer of frosting over the top
3. Add the second (and third, if using) layer
4. Frost the top and sides generously with cream cheese frosting
5. Use an offset spatula to smooth, swirl, or texture your finish

For a rustic look, use a swooping pattern. For smooth edges, run a cake scraper along the sides while rotating the cake stand.

Step 5: Decorate for Flavor & Flair

Want to take your chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting to the next level? Top it off with:

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries
• Cocoa powder dusting
• Chocolate ganache drizzle
• Piped frosting rosettes or borders

These small touches make your chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting look bakery-quality—and they’re easier than they look.

Want more show-stopping treats?
Don’t miss our Mango Mocktail — a refreshing sip that pairs perfectly with a slice of chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips

One of the biggest benefits of a chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting—aside from how rich and delicious it is—is that it stores beautifully. Whether you’re prepping in advance or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep your cake tasting bakery-fresh.

🧊 How to Store Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Because cream cheese is perishable, the cake needs to be stored properly—especially if you’re not serving it the same day.

➤ Short-Term (1–2 Days):

• Refrigerator: Store the cake covered in the fridge.
• Use a cake dome, airtight container, or wrap slices in plastic wrap.
• Let the cake sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

➤ Room Temperature Tip:

If your kitchen is cool and the cake will be eaten within a few hours, you can leave it out. But anything beyond 2–3 hours? Refrigerate it.

❄️ Freezing the Cake (Frosted or Unfrosted)

Want to bake ahead or save extra slices? You can absolutely freeze chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting.

Freezing Instructions:

1. Chill the cake until the frosting firms up
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil
3. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container
4. Label and freeze for up to 2 months

To thaw:
Place in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.

🥥 If you enjoy the rich contrast of chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting, you’ll love the tropical vibes of our Coconut Cream Cake Recipe — fluffy layers, creamy coconut filling, and irresistible texture in every bite!

📝 Quick Storage Recap:

By following these storage and make-ahead tips, your chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting will taste just as good on day three as it did on day one—maybe even better.

FAQ – Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

❓ Does cream cheese frosting go well with chocolate cake?

Absolutely. Cream cheese frosting goes incredibly well with chocolate cake because the tanginess of the cream cheese perfectly balances the richness and sweetness of the cocoa. It adds a velvety, slightly savory layer that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it. This contrast is why so many people prefer cream cheese over buttercream for chocolate desserts.

❓ What kind of frosting goes best with chocolate cake?

While chocolate buttercream is a popular option, many bakers agree that cream cheese frosting is one of the best pairings for chocolate cake. It’s smooth, slightly tangy, and cuts through the deep, bold flavor of the chocolate. Other great frosting choices include chocolate ganache, mocha frosting, and whipped cream cheese blends with citrus or espresso for added depth.

❓ What cake flavors go with cream cheese frosting?

Cream cheese frosting is incredibly versatile. Besides chocolate, it pairs beautifully with:

• Red velvet cake
• Carrot cake
• Pumpkin cake
• Banana cake
• Spice cake

Its balance of tangy and sweet makes it a natural fit for bold, spiced, or rich cake bases. But honestly, chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting remains one of the most crowd-pleasing combinations out there.

❓ Can you mix chocolate and cream cheese?

Yes—and it’s delicious! You can combine melted chocolate or cocoa powder with cream cheese to create a chocolate cream cheese frosting that’s rich, creamy, and not overly sweet. It’s a great option if you want to stay within the cream cheese category but add an extra hit of chocolate to match your cake.

🍫 Want to go all-in on chocolate?
Try our Triple Chocolate Cake for the ultimate cocoa-packed dessert layered with ganache, chips, and deep chocolate flavor.

Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Recipe Card

This chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting is rich, moist, and perfectly balanced with a tangy, smooth frosting. A must-bake for birthdays, holidays, or when you simply need a chocolate fix done right.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Assemble: 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp espresso powder (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee or water
• ¾ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz full-fat block cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

 

• Prep & Preheat:Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
• Mix Dry Ingredients:In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
• Mix Wet Ingredients:In a separate bowl, beat eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Gradually mix into dry ingredients. Add hot coffee last; stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
• Bake:Divide batter into pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 mins, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
• Make Frosting:Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar slowly. Mix in vanilla and salt. Chill for 10–15 minutes if needed.
• Assemble Cake:Level cake layers. Spread frosting between layers and on top. Decorate with chocolate shavings, berries, or sprinkles.

Notes

• Room Temp Ingredients: For the best frosting texture, make sure your cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing.
• Buttermilk Substitute: No buttermilk? Use 1 cup of milk + 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Even Layers: Use a serrated knife to level cake layers for a professional look.
• Chill for Clean Cuts: Refrigerate the frosted cake for 20–30 minutes before slicing to get clean, bakery-style cuts.
• Frosting Fix: If your frosting is too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm it up before spreading.

Keyword chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting, cream cheese frosting recipe, homemade chocolate cake, moist chocolate cake

Conclusion

When it comes to classic, crowd-pleasing desserts, chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting never disappoints. It’s rich without being too heavy, sweet but perfectly balanced by the creamy, tangy frosting. From birthdays and holidays to just-because bakes, this cake is a versatile go-to that always delivers on flavor.

Now you’ve got all the tools to bake your best-ever chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting —from scratch-made batter to stable, silky cream cheese frosting, plus tips for decorating, storing, and customizing it your way.

Whether you’re layering on berries, drizzling ganache, or keeping it simple with swirls of frosting, this is one recipe that’ll stay in your favorites folder for good.

🍰 Still craving sweet inspiration?
Browse all of our dessert recipes for cakes, cookies, bars, and more homemade favorites worth bookmarking!