Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip – Easy & Moist Recipe

If you love soft vanilla cake, gooey chocolate chips, and a rich chocolate ganache drip, then this cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, a special gathering, or simply a weekend baking project, this Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different chocolate-based desserts, check out this Matilda Chocolate Cake Recipe for another indulgent treat.

Want to improve your cake frosting skills? Read this guide on how to frost a cake smoothly from Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip

• Fluffy chocolate chip cake with a rich chocolate ganache topping.
• Easy-to-follow recipe with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and celebrations.
• Decadent chocolate chips in every bite with a silky-smooth ganache drizzle.

Additionally, if you want to perfect your ganache, check out this guide from King Arthur Baking on achieving a smooth, glossy drip.

Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip

Chocolate Chip Cake Ingredients

Ganache Drip Ingredients

Buttercream Frosting for Chocolate Chip Cake

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip

1. Prepare the Chocolate Chip Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
6. Fold in mini chocolate chips (coat them in flour first to prevent sinking).

For professional baking tips, check out this guide on baking perfect cakes by Bigger Bolder Baking.

2. Baking the Chocolate Chip Layer Cake

1. Evenly divide the batter between the cake pans.
2. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

3. Making the Buttercream Frosting

1. Beat butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, then add vanilla extract and heavy cream.
3. Continue beating until light and fluffy.

4. Frosting and Stacking the Cake Layers

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread buttercream evenly.
2. Repeat with the second and third layers.
3. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill the cake for 15 minutes before final frosting.

For decorating inspiration, explore this guide on piping buttercream flowers by Wilton.

5. How to Make a Smooth Chocolate Ganache Drip

1. Heat heavy cream until steaming (do not boil).
2. Pour over chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth, then mix in butter for a glossy texture.

6. Dripping Ganache on the Cake

1. Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to gently drip ganache down the cake edges.
2. Pour remaining ganache over the top and spread evenly.
3. Allow to set before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Ganache Cake

✅ Keep chocolate chips evenly distributed by tossing them in flour before mixing.
✅ Ensure a smooth ganache drip by letting it cool slightly before applying.
Use room-temperature ingredients for a fluffier cake.
✅ Chill before applying ganache to control drips.

For more decorating tips, visit this cake decorating guide from Food Network.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Keep at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
• Reheat ganache gently before use.

FAQs About Chocolate Chip Ganache Drip Cake

Why do chocolate chips sink in the batter?

If you’ve ever baked a cake or muffins with chocolate chips, you may have noticed that they often sink to the bottom instead of staying evenly distributed throughout the batter. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re aiming for a perfectly balanced texture. So, why does this happen, and how can you prevent it?

The Science Behind Sinking Chocolate Chips

Chocolate chips sink in batter primarily due to density differences between the chocolate and the cake batter. Since chocolate chips are heavier than the surrounding mixture, they naturally gravitate downward as the batter bakes. This is especially common in thin or runny batters where the liquid content isn’t thick enough to support the weight of the chocolate chips.

Additionally, the baking process itself plays a role. As the batter heats up, it becomes more fluid before setting, which allows heavier ingredients—like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit—to sink further before the structure of the cake solidifies.

Common Mistakes That Cause Sinking

1. Batter Consistency is Too Thin – A runny batter lacks the structure needed to hold up chocolate chips.
2. Chocolate Chips Are Too Large or Heavy – Larger, denser chocolate chips are more likely to sink.
3. Overmixing the Batter – Too much mixing can deflate air bubbles, making the batter less able to support mix-ins.
4. Adding Chips Too Early – If chocolate chips are added before the batter has thickened slightly, they may sink faster.

How to Prevent Chocolate Chips from Sinking

✅ Coat Chocolate Chips in Flour – Tossing chocolate chips in 1–2 teaspoons of flour before adding them to the batter helps suspend them evenly by creating friction.
✅ Use Mini Chocolate Chips – Smaller chips are lighter and less likely to sink.
Thicken Your Batter – Reduce liquid slightly or use cake flour to create a thicker consistency.
✅ Add Chocolate Chips Last – Stir them in just before pouring the batter into the pan.

By following these simple tricks, you can keep your chocolate chips evenly distributed, ensuring each bite of your cake or muffins is perfectly balanced with chocolatey goodness! 🍫✨

How do I make ganache thicker?

Ganache is a smooth, glossy mixture of chocolate and heavy cream, commonly used for cake drips, fillings, and glazes. However, if your ganache is too thin and runny, you may need to thicken it to achieve the perfect consistency.

Why Is My Ganache Too Thin?

Several factors can cause ganache to be too runny:

• Too Much Cream – A higher cream-to-chocolate ratio results in a thinner consistency.
• Warm Temperature – Freshly made ganache is naturally thinner before it cools.
• Type of Chocolate Used – Milk or white chocolate contains more milk solids and less cocoa, making the ganache softer than when using dark chocolate.

Ways to Thicken Ganache

1. Let It Cool

Ganache thickens naturally as it cools. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, or refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent hardening.

2. Adjust the Chocolate-to-Cream Ratio

If your ganache is too thin, add more melted chocolate to the mixture. Here’s a guide for different consistencies:

• Pourable glaze/drip: 1:1 ratio (equal parts chocolate and cream)
• Thicker filling or frosting: 2:1 ratio (twice as much chocolate as cream)
• Firm truffle texture: 3:1 ratio (three times more chocolate than cream)

3. Reheat and Stir

If the ganache has already set but is too thin, gently reheat it over a double boiler or in short microwave bursts (10 seconds at a time), stirring continuously to encourage thickening.

4. Add Powdered Sugar or Cocoa Powder

For a quick fix, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons of powdered sugar or unsweetened cocoa powder until the desired thickness is reached.

5. Use Butter or Cornstarch

• Butter (1 tbsp per cup of ganache) creates a richer, thicker texture.
• Cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tsp water) can be stirred into warm ganache to help thicken it.

By using these methods, you can achieve a perfectly thickened ganache for your cakes, drips, and fillings! 🍫✨

Can I prepare this cake in advance?

Yes! You can absolutely prepare this Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip in advance, making it a convenient dessert for special occasions. Proper preparation and storage will ensure your cake stays moist, flavorful, and beautifully decorated when it’s time to serve.

How to Make This Cake Ahead of Time

1. Bake the Cake Layers in Advance

• How far in advance? You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days ahead and store them properly.
• Storage:
  • Wrap each completely cooled cake layer tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Store at room temperature for up to 24 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the layers (see below).

2. Freezing the Cake Layers

• Best for long-term prep: If making the cake more than 3 days in advance, freezing is the best option.
• How to freeze:
  • Wrap each cooled cake layer in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for extra protection.
  • Place in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
  • Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Thawing:
  • Transfer frozen layers to the refrigerator overnight before assembling.
  • Let them come to room temperature before frosting for the best texture.

3. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting in Advance

• Make the buttercream up to 5 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip for a smooth consistency.

4. Make the Ganache in Advance

• Ganache can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth before using.

5. Fully Assembled Cake Storage

• Refrigerate: Store a fully frosted and decorated cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent drying.
• Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes to soften.

By following these steps, you can prepare this cake in advance without compromising taste or texture, making party planning stress-free! 🎂✨

What’s the best way to transport this cake?

Transporting a Chocolate Chip Cake with Ganache Drip can be tricky, especially with its delicate frosting and glossy ganache drizzle. However, with the right precautions, you can ensure that your cake arrives intact, beautiful, and delicious.

1. Chill the Cake Before Transporting

• A cold cake is more stable and less likely to shift during transport.
• After assembling and decorating, place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30–60 minutes to help the frosting and ganache firm up.
• If possible, chill the cake overnight before traveling.

2. Use a Sturdy Cake Box or Carrier

• Choose a cake box or airtight cake carrier that’s slightly larger than the cake to prevent smudging.
• If using a box, place a non-slip mat or folded parchment paper under the cake board to prevent sliding.
• Avoid covering the cake with plastic wrap, as it can stick to the frosting and ruin decorations.

3. Keep the Cake Level

• Always transport the cake on a flat, stable surface, such as the floor of your car or in a secure cake carrier.
• Avoid placing the cake on a car seat, as the angle may cause shifting.
• If using the trunk, place a non-slip mat underneath to keep the box from sliding.

4. Control the Temperature

• Warm temperatures can cause buttercream to soften and ganache to melt.
• If traveling in hot weather, turn on the air conditioning in your car before placing the cake inside.
• For long trips, consider using an insulated cooler bag or placing ice packs around (but not touching) the cake box.

5. Drive Carefully

• Avoid sudden stops or sharp turns, as they can shift the cake.
• Take a smoother route if possible and drive slowly over bumps and potholes.

6. Final Touch-Ups Upon Arrival

• If minor smudging occurs, bring a small offset spatula and extra frosting for quick touch-ups.
• If ganache smears, warm a metal spatula slightly and smooth it over the affected area.

By following these cake transportation tips, you can ensure your cake arrives safely and looks stunning at any event! 🎂✨

Final Thoughts & More Delicious Desserts

This chocolate chip cake with a ganache drip is an elegant yet simple dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion. With its moist texture, rich chocolate chips, and silky ganache topping, this cake is guaranteed to impress!

For more delicious treats, check out Brownies in a Muffin Pan for an easy chocolate fix.