When it comes to special occasions, a show-stopping layer cake is often the centerpiece. But what makes a layer cake truly decadent? Is it the rich flavors, the towering height, or the sheer indulgence of each and every bite? Whatever your answer may be, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 decadent layer cake recipes perfect for any special occasion.
From classic triple chocolate to innovative matcha green tea, these cakes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet tooth. With flavors ranging from fruity and floral to nutty and boozy, there’s something for everyone in this diverse lineup. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply want to treat yourself, we’ve got the perfect recipe to make your taste buds sing.
Stay tuned for our top 18 picks, featuring everything from classic red velvet to unique peanut butter chocolate, and get ready to elevate your baking game with these indulgent layer cakes.
Classic Triple Chocolate Layer Cake
This rich and decadent cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. With three layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate buttercream frosting, and a hint of cocoa powder, this cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before assembling with chocolate buttercream frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Vanilla Bean Raspberry Layer Cake
A decadent dessert featuring layers of moist vanilla cake, sweet raspberry filling, and a hint of creamy bean flavor.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the raspberry filling:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
3. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Make raspberry filling by combining raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Strain seeds from mixture.
5. Assemble cake by spreading raspberry filling between layers. Top with whipped cream or powdered sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (includes baking time)
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Layer Cake
This moist and decadent cake combines the classic flavors of red velvet and cream cheese, layered with a velvety smooth frosting. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Mix cake ingredients in a large bowl until just combined.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes, including cooling time.
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and tangy lemon blueberry layer cake, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) fresh or frozen blueberries
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Add milk and whisk until smooth. Fold in blueberries.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Layers
This classic carrot cake recipe gets a boost from cream cheese layers, adding a tangy and creamy contrast to the warm spices and sweet carrots. Perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese layers:
+ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
+ 1/4 cup granulated sugar
+ 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, then stir in carrots and walnuts (if using).
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Prepare cream cheese layers by beating softened cream cheese with sugar and sour cream until smooth.
6. Assemble cake by spreading cream cheese layers on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and satisfying cake that combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with a moist and fluffy layer cake.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– Whipped cream and additional strawberries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with whipped cream and strawberries.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tiramisu Layer Cake with Coffee Soaked Sponge
Elevate your cake game with this decadent Tiramisu Layer Cake featuring coffee-soaked sponge, creamy mascarpone cheese, and rich chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup (120g) strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, milk, baking powder, and salt.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. While cakes are still warm, soak them in coffee syrup (1 cup strong brewed coffee + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar) for at least 30 minutes.
5. Assemble cake by spreading mascarpone mixture between layers and topping with whipped cream and melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes, including cake baking and coffee soaking time.
Black Forest Layer Cake with Cherries and Whipped Cream
This classic German-inspired dessert is a showstopper, featuring moist chocolate cake layers soaked in cherry liqueur, topped with whipped cream and tart cherries. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup cherry liqueur (such as Kirschwasser)
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling and topping with whipped cream and cherries.
Cooking Time: 75-90 minutes (including baking time)
Funfetti Birthday Layer Cake
This vibrant layer cake is the perfect treat for anyone’s special day, featuring a bright yellow sponge cake filled with colorful funfetti and topped with creamy buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
– Buttercream frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Sprinkle funfetti on top of each cake.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Buttercream Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine ingredients and mix until smooth.
Coconut Pineapple Layer Cake
This tropical-inspired cake is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring layers of moist pineapple-infused sponge cake, creamy coconut buttercream, and toasted coconut flakes. A refreshing twist on the classic vanilla cake!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add softened butter and pineapple juice; mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the layer cake with frosting and topping with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes (including cooling time)
Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Cake
A moist and decadent cake that combines the richness of peanut butter with the depth of chocolate, topped with a velvety layer of cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Whipped cream and chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool and thicken.
Assembly:
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with half of the melted chocolate. Repeat with remaining layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream (if using). Garnish with chopped peanuts (if desired).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Layer Cake
This vibrant cake is a perfect blend of Japanese green tea culture and Western baking tradition. With its delicate matcha flavor and soft, fluffy texture, it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (30g) matcha powder
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add matcha powder and whisk until well combined.
4. Alternate adding milk and butter, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before assembling and frosting.
Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes
Salted Caramel Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting
Salted Caramel Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Rich and decadent, this salted caramel layer cake is a showstopper that combines the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. With layers of moist vanilla cake and gooey caramel filling, topped with creamy buttercream frosting, this dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the caramel filling:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the buttercream frosting:
– 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to package instructions or make from scratch using the ingredients above.
3. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
5. Make the caramel filling by combining sugar, corn syrup, water, and sea salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
7. Assemble the cake by spreading a layer of caramel on each cooled cake, followed by a dollop of buttercream frosting.
8. Top with remaining cake layer and frost entire cake with buttercream.
Cooking time: approximately 45-50 minutes (including cooling)
Banana Pudding Layer Cake with Vanilla Wafers
This moist and creamy layer cake is infused with the sweet flavor of banana pudding, topped with crunchy vanilla wafers for added texture. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with whipped cream and crushed vanilla wafers.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per layer
Pumpkin Spice Layer Cake with Maple Frosting
This moist and flavorful layer cake is infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, topped with a rich maple frosting that adds a touch of sweetness. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
For the frosting:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients.
3. Beat in butter, eggs, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling with maple frosting.
Cooking Time: 75-80 minutes
German Chocolate Layer Cake with Coconut Pecan Filling
This decadent cake is a masterclass in textures and flavors, featuring moist chocolate cake, creamy coconut filling, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the coconut pecan filling:
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Mix cake ingredients in a large bowl. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Prepare filling by mixing coconut, pecans, butter, confectioners’ sugar, and heavy cream in a bowl.
5. Assemble cake by spreading filling between layers and frosting the outside with your favorite chocolate frosting.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes per layer
Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake with Nutella Frosting
This show-stopping cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, with layers of moist chocolate cake infused with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, topped with a creamy Nutella frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup hazelnut butter
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces Nutella
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, milk, eggs, hazelnut butter, and melted butter.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; whisk until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. To make frosting, beat Nutella, powdered sugar, and butter in a large bowl until smooth.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mocha Espresso Layer Cake with Chocolate Ganache
Elevate your cake game with this decadent mocha espresso layer cake, smothered in rich chocolate ganache. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, espresso powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
7. To make ganache, heat cream in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Let it sit for 2 minutes before stirring until smooth.
8. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread with ganache, and repeat with remaining layers.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 decadent layer cake recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic triple chocolate to unique flavors like matcha green tea and salted caramel, there’s something for everyone. Recipes feature creative combinations like strawberry shortcake, tiramisu, and black forest, as well as beloved classics like carrot cake and red velvet. Each recipe includes a detailed description of the layers, frostings, and decorations needed to create a stunning showpiece that’s sure to delight.
