When it comes to chocolate cake, choosing the right filling can make all the difference: the filling can either elevate or ruin the entire cake experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which filling to use. That’s why I’ve done the research and taste-testing to provide you with the best fillings for chocolate cake.
A good chocolate cake filling should complement the chocolate flavor of the cake without overpowering it. Some popular filling options include chocolate ganache, chocolate mousse, and vanilla buttercream. Each of these fillings has its own unique texture and taste, making it important to choose one that suits your personal preferences. In this article, I’ll go over the pros and cons of each filling option and provide tips on how to make them. So whether you’re a chocolate cake enthusiast or just looking to pamper your guests at your next dinner party, keep reading to find out which filling is the best for chocolate cake.
Types of Chocolate Cake Fillings
When it comes to chocolate cake fillings, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types of chocolate cake fillings:
Ganache
Ganache is a classic chocolate filling made with chocolate and cream. It can be used as a filling or as a frosting. You can make ganache with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference. A 1:1 ratio of chocolate to cream will result in a softer ganache that is ideal for glazing cakes. A 2:1 ratio of chocolate to cream will result in a firmer ganache that can be used as a filling or frosting.
Pros:
1. Rich, indulgent flavor: Chocolate ganache is made with chocolate and cream, which gives it a rich, luxurious flavor that pairs well with chocolate cake.
2. Moisture: The cream in the ganache helps to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Chocolate ganache can be used as a filling, frosting, or drizzle for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Easy to make: Ganache is relatively easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients (chocolate and cream) and minimal preparation time.
Cons:
1. Richness: While the rich flavor of ganache can be a pro, it can also be a con for some people who prefer lighter, less rich desserts.
2. Calories: Ganache is high in calories and fat, which may not be ideal for those watching their calorie intake.
3. Cost: Depending on the quality of the chocolate used, ganache can be expensive to make, which may be a concern for those on a budget.
4. Texture: The texture of ganache can be dense and heavy, which may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
Overall, while chocolate ganache can be a delicious and indulgent filling for chocolate cake, it may not be the best choice for all situations or preferences.
Chocolate Mousse
Chocolate mousse is a light and airy filling that pairs well with chocolate cake. It can be made with whipped cream, chocolate, and eggs. The whipped cream gives the mousse its light and airy texture, while the chocolate provides the rich chocolate flavor.
Pros:
1. Light, airy texture: Chocolate mousse has a light, airy texture that can add a nice contrast to the dense texture of chocolate cake.
2. Moisture: The cream in the mousse helps to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Chocolate mousse can be used as a filling, frosting, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Flavor options: Chocolate mousse can be made with different types of chocolate or flavorings, allowing for a variety of flavor options.
Cons:
1. Time-consuming: Making chocolate mousse can be time-consuming, as it requires whipping egg whites and cream to create the light, airy texture.
2. Temperature-sensitive: Chocolate mousse can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be kept refrigerated until just before serving, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
3. Difficulty: Chocolate mousse can be tricky to make, as it requires a delicate balance of ingredients and techniques to achieve the right texture and flavor.
4. Not suitable for all diets: Chocolate mousse typically contains dairy and eggs, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is a simple and classic filling that can be used on its own or combined with other fillings. It is made by whipping heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. For a chocolate note, you can add cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the whipped cream. You can also add a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Pros:
1. Light, fluffy texture: Whipped cream has a light, fluffy texture that can add a nice contrast to the dense texture of chocolate cake.
2. Versatility: Whipped cream can be used as a filling, frosting, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
3. Easy to make: Whipped cream is relatively easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients (heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract) and minimal preparation time.
4. Mild flavor: Whipped cream has a mild, sweet flavor that can complement the rich flavor of chocolate cake without overwhelming it.
Cons:
1. Stability: Whipped cream can be unstable and may deflate or separate if not handled carefully or left out too long, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
2. Temperature-sensitive: Whipped cream can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be kept refrigerated until just before serving, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
3. Not suitable for all diets: Whipped cream typically contains dairy, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
4. Limited flavor options: Whipped cream has a relatively mild flavor and may not offer as many flavor options as other fillings or frostings.
Caramel
Caramel is a sweet and sticky filling that pairs well with chocolate cake. It can be made by cooking sugar until it turns into a golden brown color. Cream and butter are then added to the caramel to create a smooth and creamy filling.
Pros:
1. Rich, indulgent flavor: Caramel has a rich, sweet flavor that pairs well with chocolate cake.
2. Moisture: The caramel can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Caramel can be used as a filling, drizzle, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Simple and common ingredients: Caramel requires only a few common ingredients (sugar, cream, and butter) and minimal preparation time.
Cons:
1. Sticky texture: Caramel can have a sticky, gooey texture that may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
2. Difficulty: Caramel can be tricky to make, as it requires careful attention, temperature, and timing to avoid burning or crystallizing.
3. Temperature-sensitive: Caramel can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be kept warm or reheated before use, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
4. Not suitable for all diets: Caramel typically contains dairy and sugar, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
Jam
Jam is a fruity filling that can be used to add a burst of flavor and a pop of color to chocolate cake. Raspberry and strawberry jam are both popular choices for chocolate cake. To make the jam easier to spread, you can heat it up in a saucepan and then let it cool before using it as a filling.
Pros:
1. Fruit flavor: Jam can provide a fruity flavor that can complement the rich flavor of chocolate cake.
2. Moisture: The jam can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Jam can be used as a filling, drizzle, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Easy to find: Jam is widely available and can be found in most grocery stores.
Cons:
1. Texture: Jam can have a slightly chunky texture that may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
2. Sweetness: Jam is typically quite sweet, which may not be ideal for those who prefer less sweet desserts.
3. Limited flavor options: Jam typically comes in a limited range of flavors, which may not offer as many options as other fillings or frostings.
4. Not suitable for all diets: Jam typically contains lots of sugar, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
Chocolate Buttercream
Chocolate buttercream is a rich and decadent frosting that can also be used as a filling. It is made by creaming butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy. You can naturally use other flavors of buttercream than chocolate, but chocolate buttercream makes chocolate cake extra chocolatey and takes it to the next level.
Pros:
1. Rich, indulgent flavor: Chocolate buttercream has a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs well with chocolate cake.
2. Moisture: The buttercream can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Chocolate buttercream can be used as a filling, frosting, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Easy to make: Chocolate buttercream is relatively easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and short preparation time.
Cons:
1. Richness: While the rich flavor of chocolate buttercream can be a pro, it can also be a con for some people who prefer lighter, less rich desserts.
2. Calories: Chocolate buttercream is high in calories and fat, which may not be ideal for those watching their calorie or fat intake.
3. Texture: The texture of chocolate buttercream can be dense and heavy, which may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
4. Temperature-sensitive: Chocolate buttercream can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be kept refrigerated until just before serving, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
Lemon Curd
Lemon curd is a tangy and sweet filling that can be used to balance out the richness of chocolate cake. It is made by cooking lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter together until it thickens.
Pros:
1. Bright, tangy flavor: Lemon curd has a bright, tangy flavor that can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavor of chocolate cake.
2. Moisture: The lemon curd can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Lemon curd can be used as a filling, drizzle, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Easy to make: Lemon curd is relatively easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and quick preparation time.
Cons:
1. Flavor combination: While some people may enjoy the combination of lemon and chocolate, others may find it to be an odd or unappealing flavor combination.
2. Texture: Lemon curd can have a slightly gelatinous and runny texture that may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
3. Not suitable for all diets: Lemon curd typically contains eggs and sugar, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
4. Might overpower the chocolate: Lemon curd is tangy and flavorful and thus can easily overpower the flavor of chocolate especially in lighter and fluffier chocolate cakes..
Cream Cheese Filling
Cream cheese filling is a rich and creamy filling that can be used to add a tangy flavor to chocolate cake. It is made by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
Pros:
1. Stability: Cream cheese filling has a stable consistency that can hold up well between cake layers, making it a good choice for layer cakes.
2. Flavor variations: Cream cheese filling can be flavored in a variety of ways, such as with vanilla extract, orange zest, coconut, or spices (like cinnamon), providing a range of flavor options for chocolate cake.
3. Easy to spread: Cream cheese filling is easy to spread evenly between cake layers, making it a convenient filling option for novice bakers.
Cons:
1. Temperature sensitivity: Cream cheese filling can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be refrigerated or kept cool before use, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
2. Not suitable for all diets: Cream cheese filling typically contains dairy, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
3. Texture: The texture of cream cheese filling can be dense and heavy, which may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a rich and nutty filling that can be used to add a unique flavor to chocolate cake. It can be spread directly onto the cake or combined with other fillings like whipped cream or chocolate ganache.
Pros:
1. Rich, nutty flavor: Peanut butter has a rich, nutty flavor that can complement the chocolate flavor of the cake.
2. Moisture: The peanut butter can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Versatility: Peanut butter can be used as a filling, drizzle, or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
4. Nutritional value: Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which can add some nutritional value to the cake.
Cons:
1. Allergies: Peanut butter is a common allergen, so it may not be suitable for all individuals or events.
2. Texture: The texture of peanut butter can be slightly sticky and thick, which may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
3. Limited flavor options: Peanut butter has a relatively limited range of flavors, which may not offer as much variety as other fillings or frostings.
4. Not suitable for all diets: Peanut butter is high in calories and fat, which may not be suitable for those watching their calorie intake or following certain diets.
Vanilla Custard Cake Filling
Vanilla custard cake filling is a creamy and sweet filling that can be used to add a classic flavor to chocolate cake. It is made by cooking milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch together until it thickens.
Pros:
1. Creamy, rich flavor: Vanilla custard filling has a creamy, rich flavor that can complement the chocolate flavor of the cake.
2. Professional look: Vanilla custard can provide a smooth, glossy filling that looks like mousse and will hold better, giving the cake a professional look.
3. Customizable: Vanilla custard can be flavored in a variety of ways, such as with different extracts, spices, or liqueurs, providing a range of flavor options for chocolate cake.
4. Texture: Vanilla custard has a smooth and silky texture that can add a luxurious feel to the cake.
Cons:
1. Temperature sensitivity: Vanilla custard can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be refrigerated or kept cool before use, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
2. Not suitable for all diets: Vanilla custard typically contains dairy and sugar, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
3. Stability: Vanilla custard can be less stable than other fillings or frostings, and may not hold up well in warm or humid conditions.
4. Time-consuming: Making vanilla custard from scratch can be time-consuming and may require some cooking skills.
Blueberry Curd
Blueberry curd is a fruity and tangy filling that can be used to add a burst of flavor to chocolate cake. It is made by cooking blueberries, sugar, eggs, and butter together until it thickens.
Pros:
1. Unique flavor: Blueberry curd has a unique, tangy flavor that can complement the chocolate flavor of the cake.
2. Color: Blueberry curd can add a beautiful purple color to the cake, making it visually appealing and attractive.
3. Moisture: The blueberry curd can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
4. Nutritional value: Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can add some nutritional value to the cake.
Cons:
1. Texture: The texture of blueberry curd can be slightly grainy or lumpy, which may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
2. Temperature sensitivity: Blueberry curd can be temperature-sensitive and may need to be refrigerated or kept cool before use, which can be a concern for some cake recipes or events.
3. Limited availability: Blueberries may not be available year-round in some areas, which can make it difficult to source fresh or frozen blueberries for making the curd.
4. Short shelf life: Blueberry curd has a relatively short shelf life and may need to be refrigerated or used quickly to avoid spoilage.
Oreo Cream Filling
Oreo cream filling is a sweet and creamy filling that is made by mixing crushed Oreos with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. It can be used to add a fun and playful twist to chocolate cake.
Pros:
1. Delicious flavor: Oreo cream filling has a delicious, sweet flavor that can complement the chocolate flavor of the cake.
2. Moisture: The Oreo cream filling can help to keep the cake moist and tender, which can be especially beneficial for layer cakes that may dry out quickly.
3. Familiar taste: Oreo cream filling is a familiar and popular flavor that many people enjoy, making it a crowd-pleaser for events or celebrations.
4. Cost-effective: Oreo cream filling is a relatively inexpensive filling, making it a budget-friendly option for cakes and desserts.
Cons:
1. Not suitable for all diets: Oreo cream filling typically contains dairy, sugar, and highly processed ingredients, which may not be suitable for all diets or dietary restrictions.
2. Limited nutritional value: Oreo cream filling is not a particularly nutritious ingredient, as it contains mostly sugar and processed ingredients.
3. Limited customization: Oreo cream filling has a relatively fixed flavor profile, which may not allow for much customization or experimentation in cake recipes.
4. Texture: The texture of Oreo cream filling can be slightly grainy or lumpy — even to the extent of having a sandy mouthfeel — which may not be ideal for all cake recipes or preferences.
As you can see, there are many different types of chocolate cake fillings to choose from. Whether you prefer something light and airy like chocolate mousse or something rich and creamy like caramel, there is a chocolate cake filling out there that is perfect for you.
How to Choose the Best Filling for Your Chocolate Cake
As a professional baker, I know that the filling is just as important as the cake itself. Choosing the right filling can make or break your chocolate cake. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best filling for your chocolate cake.
Consider the Occasion
Think about the occasion for which you are making the cake. If it’s for a birthday, you may want to choose a filling that is sweet and celebratory, such as a fruit and whipped cream. If it’s for a more formal event, you may want to choose a filling that is more elegant, such as a chocolate ganache or chocolate mousse.
Think About the Flavor Profile
Consider the flavor profile of your chocolate cake. You want to choose a filling that complements the chocolate flavor without overpowering it. For example, if your chocolate cake is rich and fudgy, you may want to choose a filling that is lighter, such as a whipped cream or fruit filling, like blueberry curd. If your chocolate cake is lighter, you may want to choose a filling that is richer, such as caramel or peanut butter.
Consider the Texture
The texture of your filling is also important. You want to choose a filling that complements the texture of your chocolate cake. For example, if your chocolate cake is moist and dense, you may want to choose a filling that is light and fluffy, such as chocolate mousse or whipped cream. If your chocolate cake is light and airy, you may want to choose a filling that is denser, such as a vanilla custard cake filling or cream cheese filling.
Consider the Temperature
Consider the temperature at which your cake will be served. If your cake will be served at room temperature, you may want to choose a filling that is stable at room temperature, such as jam or peanut butter — or those two together for an ultimate PB&J experience. If your cake will be served cold, you may want to choose a filling that is stable in the refrigerator, such as Oreo cream filling or lemon curd.
Consider the Storage
Consider how you will store your cake. If you need to store your cake in the freezer, you may want to choose a filling that is freezer-friendly, such as chocolate mousse or caramel. If you need to store your cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, you may want to choose a filling that is stable in the refrigerator, such as a cream cheese filling or Oreo cream filling.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best filling for your chocolate cake that will complement the flavor and texture of your cake and be appropriate for the occasion.
So, What is the Best Filling for Chocolate Cake?
After researching and considering various options, I have come to the conclusion that the best filling for chocolate cake depends on personal preference and the occasion. Some people may prefer a rich and decadent chocolate mousse, while others may prefer a lighter whipped cream filling — or lighter mousse.
If you are looking for a classic and simple filling, ganache made with equal parts chocolate and cream is a great choice. It can also be whipped into a mousse for a lighter texture. Another classic option is buttercream, which can be flavored with chocolate — or vanilla or other extracts to complement the chocolate cake.
For those who want to add a fruity twist to their chocolate cake, raspberry or strawberry jam can be a great option. Lemon curd or blueberry curd can also add a tangy and refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
For Oreo lovers, Oreo cream filling is the best filling for any chocolate cake.
It’s important to consider the texture as well as the flavor of the filling. A denser filling like fudge or caramel can add a chewy and gooey texture to the cake, while a lighter filling like whipped cream or mousse can balance out the dense chocolate cake.
Ultimately, the best filling for chocolate cake is the one that you enjoy the most. Experiment with different fillings and combinations to find the perfect match for your taste buds. Whether it’s a classic ganache, a fruity filling, or a creamy mousse, a well-filled chocolate cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
If you wonder what is my favorite filling of all those, it’s whipped ganache made from milk chocolate. Even though it’s very basic, it makes a perfect sturdy, slightly airy yet decadent and mouth-watering filling to light and dense chocolate cakes alike!