If you have a serious sweet tooth and a love for chocolate, the Hershey Bar Cake Recipe is a dream come true. This cake brings together the rich, familiar flavors of Hershey’s chocolate bars with a moist, tender German chocolate cake base, topped with creamy layers and a luscious chocolate ganache. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration in every bite, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on a cozy night in. Get ready to dive deep into chocolate heaven that’s absolutely worth every step of the process.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Hershey Bar Cake Recipe. From the moisture-locking pudding mix to the silky cream cheese and the array of chocolates, every item is carefully chosen to make this cake unforgettable.
- 2 boxes German Chocolate cake mix: Provides the rich and moist cake foundation with a hint of coconut and pecan flavor.
- 6.8 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix: Adds extra moisture and a creamy texture to the cake batter, ensuring softness.
- 6 large eggs: Essential for structure and richness.
- 1 cup canola oil: Keeps the cake tender without overwhelming the chocolate flavor.
- 2 1/2 cups water: Hydrates the dry ingredients for a smooth batter.
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened): Creates the tangy, luscious layer that balances the sweetness.
- 24 ounces cool whip: Lightens the cream cheese mixture for a fluffy texture.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer perfectly.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting adding smoothness without graininess.
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans: Adds a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor.
- 2 large Hershey chocolate bars: The star of the show, melted into ganache for deep chocolate richness.
- 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips: Gives the ganache a silky texture and balance of flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: The key to smooth, glossy ganache.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the frosting layers.
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor in the frosting.
- 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances all the other flavors with warmth and depth.
- 3-5 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream: Adjusts the frosting to perfect spreadability.
- 6 mini Hershey chocolate bars: Perfect for decorating and adding fun, bite-sized chocolate pieces.
- 1 container chocolate sprinkles: Adds a festive, textured finish.
How to Make Hershey Bar Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your cake pans generously. In a large bowl, combine both boxes of German Chocolate cake mix with the instant vanilla pudding, eggs, canola oil, and water. Beat until smooth and well blended. The pudding mix helps create a moist and tender crumb, so don’t skip it! Pour the batter evenly into your pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to whip up that dreamy cream cheese layer. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cool whip and finely chopped pecans. This layer adds a light, tangy crunch that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake and ganache. Refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble.
Step 3: Make the Hershey Chocolate Ganache
Chop the Hershey chocolate bars and place them alongside the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy whipping cream just until simmering, then pour it over the chocolate, letting it sit for a few minutes to soften. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. The ganache is where the magic intensifies—its silky texture and rich chocolate flavor will have everyone swooning.
Step 4: Bake the Frosting
For the rich frosting that envelopes the cake, cream together the unsalted butter and cocoa powder until fluffy. Slowly add in powdered sugar and vanilla, alternating with heavy whipping cream, until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. This frosting is thick, luscious, and perfect for layering and coating the cake to lock in all those gorgeous flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly on top. Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with the chocolate cocoa frosting. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip beautifully down the sides for that classic, irresistible look. Decorate with mini Hershey bars and chocolate sprinkles to finish. Refrigerate for a few hours to let everything set, then slice and serve the masterpiece.
How to Serve Hershey Bar Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To really make your Hershey Bar Cake Recipe stand out, take a moment to add some thoughtful garnishes. Mini Hershey bars and chocolate sprinkles aren’t just pretty—they add texture and an extra burst of chocolate flavor that anyone will appreciate.
Side Dishes
Pair your slice with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries. The cool creaminess of ice cream balances the rich, dense chocolate, while berries add a pop of freshness and tang to prevent the dessert from feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving individual mini cakes or cupcakes made with the same Hershey Bar Cake Recipe. You can also layer the cake in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a stunning visual treat that tastes just as good as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Hershey Bar Cake Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days without drying out. Keep it wrapped tightly or in an airtight container to lock in moisture and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, slice it into portions and freeze individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. The cake freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t typically necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warmer, let the slice sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying to enhance the flavors without melting the frosting or ganache.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of Hershey’s?
Absolutely! While Hershey’s bars are classic and bring a familiar flavor, feel free to use any milk or semi-sweet chocolate bars you love. Just keep in mind the texture and sweetness might vary slightly.
Do I have to use German Chocolate cake mix?
Using German Chocolate cake mix gives the cake its signature flavor with the coconut and pecan notes. If you’re after a more traditional chocolate cake, you can substitute it with a regular chocolate cake mix, but the overall taste will be a little different.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
To make the Hershey Bar Cake Recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure all other ingredients, like pudding mix and decorations, are gluten-free certified.
How do I make the ganache thicker?
If your ganache is too runny, simply add more chopped chocolate and let it sit longer before pouring. Alternatively, chill it in the fridge for a bit until it firms up to your desired thickness.
Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?
You can reduce sweetness slightly by cutting back on the sugar in the frosting or using semi-sweet or dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate in the ganache. Just keep balance in mind so the texture and flavor don’t suffer.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Hershey Bar Cake Recipe a try. It’s one of those deliciously indulgent desserts that’s both impressive to serve and utterly satisfying to eat. Whether for a special occasion or just because, it promises to bring lots of smiles and requests for seconds. Happy baking and enjoy every chocolatey bite!
Print
Hershey Bar Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 95 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This indulgent Hershey Bar Cake is a rich and decadent dessert combining layers of moist German chocolate cake, creamy vanilla pudding, and luscious chocolate frosting. Featuring chopped pecans, Hershey bars, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping, this cake is perfect for special occasions or chocolate lovers seeking an impressive yet easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 boxes German Chocolate cake mix
- 6.8 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix (2 3.4-oz boxes)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup canola oil
- 2 1/2 cups water
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 24 ounces cool whip
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
Chocolate Ganache and Topping
- 2 Large Hershey chocolate bars
- 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (plus 3–5 tablespoons for consistency)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 mini Hershey chocolate bars
- 1 container chocolate sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 boxes of German Chocolate cake mix with the instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, canola oil, and water. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Pour the batter evenly into greased and floured cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and powdered sugar until creamy. Gently fold in the cool whip and chopped pecans to create a fluffy and nutty filling.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are cooled, spread the cream cheese filling evenly between layers and on top of the cakes, creating a rich and creamy middle layer.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache Frosting: In a saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream. Heat gently while stirring until smooth and melted. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. If frosting is too thick, add 3-5 tablespoons more heavy cream to reach desired consistency.
- Decorate the Cake: Frost the entire cake with the chocolate ganache frosting. Melt the 2 Hershey chocolate bars and semi-sweet chocolate chips together, then drizzle over the top. Garnish with mini Hershey chocolate bars and chocolate sprinkles for a finished look.
Notes
- Ensure cake layers are completely cooled before applying the cream cheese filling to prevent melting.
- Adjust heavy cream in frosting to achieve your preferred frosting consistency.
- Chopped pecans add a wonderful texture contrast but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- Store the cake refrigerated to maintain freshness, especially because of the cream cheese filling.
