Decadent Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake You Must Try!

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something undeniably enchanting about the contrast of rich chocolate and tart passionfruit that takes your taste buds on a delightful adventure. As I embarked on my quest to create the perfect dessert, I found myself craving a cake that not only looked stunning but also had layers of flavor that would keep my friends coming back for seconds. The result? A luscious Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake that brings a sense of occasion to any gathering.

This cake is a game-changer for those who feel stuck in the cycle of mundane desserts or uninspired takeout. With its smooth chocolate ganache and creamy passionfruit filling, it beautifully blends indulgence with a burst of refreshing zing. Whether you re a seasoned home chef or someone just starting to explore baking, these straightforward steps will guide you to create a showstopper that impresses with ease.

So grab your apron, and let s transport your kitchen to a land of sweet bliss!

this Recipe

Why will you love this Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake?

Irresistible Flavor Combo: The fusion of rich chocolate and tart passionfruit creates a flavor explosion that dances on your palate.

Easily Achievable: Despite its show-stopping appearance, this recipe s straightforward steps mean you can whip it up without fuss.

Impressive Presentation: Layers of chocolate and cream cheese filling topped with glossy ganache make it a stunning centerpiece for any event.

Crowd Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about this cake, making it perfect for birthdays or casual gatherings.

Versatile Layers: Switch up the filling or decorate to suit any occasion, ensuring every bake can be unique.

Elevate your baking game with this delightful recipe and check out more cake ideas for your next sweet creation!

Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
Buttermilk Adds a rich, tangy flavor and moisture to the cake.
Mild extra virgin olive oil Keeps the cake tender and moist; you can substitute with vegetable oil if desired.
Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract Enhances the cake s sweetness and aroma.
Eggs Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake s structure.
Brown sugar Provides depth of flavor, moisture, and a lovely caramel note.
Caster sugar or granulated sugar Ensures the cake rises nicely and sweetens it up.
Plain all-purpose flour The main structure-building ingredient for your cake.
Unsweetened dark Dutch processed cocoa powder Gives a deep and rich chocolate flavor, essential for the cake.
Baking powder Helps the cake rise to the perfect fluffy texture.
Bi-carb soda Works in tandem with baking powder for a light cake; crucial for the leavening process.
Fine sea salt Elevates and balances the overall flavor of the cake.
Hot coffee Intensifies the chocolate flavor; you can replace it with hot water if you prefer a milder taste.

For the Ganache
Good quality milk chocolate, very finely chopped Adds sweetness and creaminess to the ganache.
Good quality dark chocolate, very finely chopped Gives a rich, intense chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness.
Thickened (heavy) cream Creates a luscious, silky texture for the ganache.
Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract Infuses the ganache with warmth and sweetness.
Pinch fine sea salt Enhances the flavors, making the ganache irresistible.

For the Cream Cheese Filling
Cream cheese Provides a thick, creamy base for the filling, adding tanginess.
Vanilla bean paste Again, enhances the flavor with a lovely aroma.
Icing sugar Sweetens the filling and helps achieve a smooth texture.
Pulp of fresh passionfruit Delivers the zingy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.

For Decorating
Dark Dutch processed cacao For dusting, adding a touch of elegance and a bittersweet note.

Gather these ingredients and prepare to create an unforgettable Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake that will delight everyone at your table!

How to Make Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake

  1. Prepare the Ganache: Place the very finely chopped chocolate into a medium-sized bowl, ensuring even distribution for a smooth texture.

  2. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the cream and vanilla until it just comes to a simmer, swirling gently to release aromatic flavors.

  3. Combine Cream and Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped chocolate and allow it to sit untouched for 10 minutes, covering the chocolate completely with the warm cream.

  4. Whisk Smooth: After 10 minutes, whisk the cream and chocolate together until smooth and silky. Set aside in the fridge to set and firm up slightly.

  5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 160 °C using a Miele Combi Steam Oven or 180 °C (350 °F) for a conventional oven to ensure your cakes bake evenly.

  6. Prepare Cake Tins: Grease and line 2 x 20cm round cake tins with baking paper and set aside, making it easy for the cakes to release after baking.

  7. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, olive oil, vanilla, eggs, brown sugar, and caster sugar until well combined and creamy.

  8. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add flour, cocoa, baking powder, bi-carb soda, salt, and hot coffee to the wet mixture. Whisk until smooth, creating a luscious batter.

  9. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter into the two prepared cake tins and bake for 30 minutes in the Miele oven or 25 minutes in a conventional oven until a skewer comes out clean.

  10. Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before assembling, preventing any melting of the filling.

  11. Cream Cheese Filling: For the passionfruit and vanilla cream cheese filling, beat the cream cheese and vanilla until smooth, creating a creamy texture that s easy to spread.

  12. Add Sweetness: Add the icing sugar and passionfruit to the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth. Set aside in the fridge until ready to assemble the cake.

  13. Assemble the Cake: Ensure the cakes are completely cold before assembling. Place one layer of the cake onto a serving plate, ready to build delicious layers.

  14. Spread Filling: Dollop the passionfruit filling evenly over the first layer, then gently spread it out with the back of a spoon for an even distribution.

  15. Top with Passionfruit: Evenly spoon the fresh passionfruit pulp over the cream cheese filling, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.

  16. Layer It Up: Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down to secure, ensuring it doesn t wobble as you add the toppings.

  17. Add Ganache: Dollop the ganache over the top layer of the cake and gently spread it out with the back of a spoon, creating beautiful swooshes in the ganache.

  18. Dust for Elegance: Dust the cake evenly with dark cacao, adding a touch of elegance, then place it in the fridge to set for a couple of hours before serving.

Optional: Add fresh passionfruit slices on top for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake?

It s time to create a delightful dining experience that matches the decadence of your cake!

  • Fresh Berries: Their sweetness and acidity provide a refreshing contrast that beautifully complements the rich chocolate and tart passionfruit.

  • Whipped Cream: A classic pairing that adds a light, airy texture, making each bite of cake even more indulgent.

  • Coconut Sorbet: This icy treat offers a tropical twist, balancing the chocolate s richness while enhancing the exotic passionfruit flavor.

  • Coffee: A robust brew enhances the flavors of the cake, creating a delightful harmony that truly celebrates your baking efforts.

  • Mint Tea: A soothing herbal option that refreshes the palate, making it a perfect companion to this sumptuous dessert.

  • Chocolate Mousse: For an extra dose of indulgence, a silky mousse echoes the chocolatey notes of the cake while providing a contrasting texture.

Picture this: serving a wedge of Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a side of fresh berries, utterly enchanting your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; just ensure they are completely cooled and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain their moisture. The chocolate ganache can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated, then gently reheated before serving to achieve that smooth consistency. As for the cream cheese filling, it can be prepared and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. When you re ready to serve, simply assemble the cake by layering the fillings and finishing with the ganache for a delightful dessert that s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake

  • Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate and fresh passionfruit for the best flavor. Cheap ingredients can significantly affect the final taste of your cake.
  • Cool Completely: Make sure the cakes are cooled completely before assembling. If they re too warm, the ganache and cream filling may melt, creating a gooey mess.
  • Gradual Mixing: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix gradually to avoid lumps in the batter. This ensures a smooth, rich Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake that rises perfectly.
  • Chill the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool until it thickens slightly before using it. This prevents it from sliding off the cake and helps achieve those lovely swooshes.
  • Layering Strength: For better stability when stacking, press down gently on each cake layer after adding filling. This ensures they adhere well without shifting.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days if you plan to enjoy it soon, to maintain its delicious texture and flavor.

Fridge: Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 5 days, ensuring it s well wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze individual slices or the whole cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cake, thaw it in the fridge overnight. If desired, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat!

Chocolate & Passionfruit Variations

Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful dessert, making it uniquely yours with these fun options!

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version that still delivers on taste.
  • Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based cream and dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly cake.
  • Fruit-Filled: Add a layer of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
  • Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped roasted nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, into the cake batter for added texture and richness.
  • Coffee Kick: Enhance the coffee flavor by using espresso instead of regular hot coffee, deepening the cake s chocolate intensity.
  • Zesty Twist: Incorporate a little lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese filling to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
  • Decadent Swirl: Marble the ganache into the cake batter before baking for a visually appealing and extra chocolatey treat.
  • Spicy Touch: For those who dare, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cake batter for a subtle spicy kick that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of buttermilk should I use?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought buttermilk or make your own by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly before using it in your cake.

How do I store leftover cake?
Very simple! Keep your Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days if you plan to indulge soon. If you need to store it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Can this cake be frozen?
Indeed! To freeze your Chocolate & Passionfruit Layer Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can keep well for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer it warm.

What if my cake layers dome in the oven?
Not to worry! If your cake layers rise unevenly, it s usually due to too much leavening or oven temperature being too high. Make sure to accurately measure your baking powder and baking soda. If the tops do domed, simply level them off with a serrated knife once they re cool!

Can I use a different filling?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with the filling. You can replace the passionfruit with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the consistency of the filling remains the same for best results.

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