Name: Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups sugar; 3/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup hot water; Chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade with cocoa, butter, sugar, and milk); Optional chocolate chips; Optional chocolate shavings or curls

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 53 reviews

If you have a soft spot for indulgent desserts, you are absolutely going to love this classic treat. The Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe offers a deep, rich chocolate experience that melts in your mouth. It’s not just any chocolate cake; it captures the luscious texture and perfectly balanced sweetness that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a luxurious dessert, this recipe brings that iconic Cheesecake Factory magic right into your kitchen with simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an organized layout of baking ingredients on a white marbled surface. At the top center, there is a tall container filled with smooth, light brown chocolate spread with a swirl on top. Below this, to the left, is a white bowl filled with white flour, and next to it on the right is a clear glass of milk. To the right of the milk glass is a transparent glass mug of water. Beneath these, two brown eggs sit side by side in the middle. Below the eggs, from left to right, are small white bowls containing reddish cocoa powder, white salt, light yellow liquid (possibly vanilla), and a pile of coarse salt. At the bottom row, there are three white bowls filled with white sugar, small dark chocolate chips, and small chocolate shavings. The layout is neat, with good spacing between each item, all set against the white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe is how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is. These elements combine to create a moist, tender cake with an intense chocolate flavor and a beautifully smooth finish.

All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a light yet sturdy cake.
Sugar: Balances the rich cocoa with just the right amount of sweetness.
Cocoa powder: Adds that deep, chocolatey flavor essential to this recipe.
Baking soda and baking powder: Give the cake its lovely rise and fluffy texture.
Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender for moist results.
Oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake delectably soft.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the chocolate flavors.
Hot water: Unlocks the cocoa flavor fully, creating a thin, glossy batter.
Chocolate frosting: The decadent finishing touch that turns cake into dessert perfection.
Optional chocolate chips or shavings: For some extra texture and beautiful garnishing.

How to Make Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your pans

First things first, grease your cake pans thoroughly and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This makes removing the cakes effortless and helps keep their perfect shape intact after baking.

Step 2: Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s fully heated by the time your batter is ready. A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and that lovely rise.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together well to distribute everything evenly — this ensures a consistent chocolate flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Add wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add in the milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth, forming the moist base that will bring the dry ingredients together.

Step 5: Combine both mixes

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly. You want a smooth batter without over-mixing, which can toughen the cake texture.

Step 6: Add hot water

Add the hot water to the batter carefully and mix just until the batter is thin, shiny, and beautiful. This step unlocks the cocoa’s full flavor and ensures a moist, luscious crumb once baked.

Step 7: Fill cake pans

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Try to keep the layers balanced so your cake bakes uniformly and stacks up nicely.

Step 8: Bake the cakes

Place the pans in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the cakes feel firm but springy to the touch.

Step 9: Cool the cakes

Remove the pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack completely. This step is crucial before frosting to avoid melting or sliding.

Step 10: Remove from pans

Gently turn the cakes out of the pans, peeling off the parchment paper without tearing your cake layers.

Step 11: Prepare frosting

Either use store-bought chocolate frosting or whip up your own combining cocoa, butter, sugar, and milk for a homemade touch packed with flavor.

Step 12: Trim the tops

If your cakes have domed on top, level them by cutting off the rounded peaks. This helps create a stable, flat surface for stacking and frosting.

Step 13: Frost the first layer

Place one cake layer on your serving plate then spread a generous amount of chocolate frosting over the top. This creamy layer adds moisture and flavor with every bite.

Step 14: Add second layer

Gently place the second cake on top, pressing lightly so it sits flat and stable.

Step 15: Frost the whole cake

Cover the top and sides of your cake with a smooth, even coating of chocolate frosting. Don’t rush this part—beautiful frosting makes all the difference!

Step 16: Add toppings

Sprinkle chocolate chips or chocolate shavings on top for a pretty finish and some added texture that invites extra indulgence.

Step 17: Chill the cake

Pop the cake into the fridge for at least an hour so the frosting firms up nicely—this makes slicing easier and cleaner.

Step 18: Slice and serve

Use a sharp, warm knife for clean slices and plate each piece with pride. Revel in the rich, moist layers and that silky frosting that makes this Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe so irresistible!

Step 19: Store leftovers

Keep any uneaten cake in a sealed container at room temperature or refrigerated. This will keep your chocolate cake fresh and soft for days.

How to Serve Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe

A slice of chocolate cake with three thick dark brown cake layers separated by three smooth and creamy light brown chocolate frosting layers, all topped with a layer of the same frosting decorated with many small curled chocolate shavings. The cake slice sits on a simple white plate on a white marbled surface. The texture of the cake looks moist and soft, with the frosting creamy and slightly glossy. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond chocolate chips and shavings, you can also add fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce. These adornments elevate the chocolate cake while adding complementary tastes and colors.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside chilled vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate with creamy, refreshing flavors. A cup of strong coffee or bold red wine also pairs beautifully to enhance the cake-eating experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into miniature squares for a party platter or serve it as triple-layered cupcakes with individual frosting swirls. You can even layer it with fresh fruit between slices for an elegant dessert centerpiece that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, keep it refrigerated but allow it to come back to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and finish frosting if needed before serving.

Reheating

Warm up individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you want that freshly baked, gooey chocolate feeling. Just be careful not to overheat or the cake may dry out.

FAQs

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk or another plant-based milk in place of regular milk and swap the frosting for a dairy-free version made with vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate.

How can I make the frosting myself?

A simple homemade frosting involves mixing unsweetened cocoa powder with softened butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the thickness based on how much milk you add.

What’s the secret to a moist chocolate cake?

The hot water in the batter is actually key—it helps bloom the cocoa and keeps the crumb tender. Also, using oil instead of butter contributes to the moistened texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, doubling works well if you have larger pans or want to make multiple cakes. Just keep baking times in mind and check for doneness with a toothpick regularly.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the cheat sheet for the beloved Cheesecake Factory Chocolate Cake Recipe, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get baking. This chocolate cake is everything you want in a dessert—rich, tender, and downright delightful. Whether for family, friends, or a personal treat, this recipe will quickly become a cherished classic in your kitchen. Enjoy every luscious bite!