When I first baked this Chocolate Raspberry Cake, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a comforting, memorable dessert. I remember the moment vividly—my kitchen filled with the rich aroma of chocolate mixing with the fresh tang of raspberry filling, an irresistible combination. What surprised me most was how the frosted cake, with its juicy raspberry layers, balanced perfectly without feeling too heavy or overly sweet. This Chocolate Raspberry Cake has since become a favorite in my recipe collection—a true representation of my philosophy to make home cooking approachable, satisfying, and joyful for everyone.
This recipe has a gentle rhythm; it’s not complicated, yet the results feel special and indulgent. I love how the berry chocolate cake layers are moist and tender, the raspberry filling bright and flavorful, and the frosting smooth and luscious. It brings a lovely comfort to any occasion, whether a quiet weekend or a festive family gathering. The warmth and smiles this cake inspires are exactly why I’m so excited to share the full recipe with you.
If you enjoy comforting desserts that combine fruit with rich chocolate, this Chocolate Raspberry Cake will be a delicious addition to your kitchen adventures. For more comfort food inspiration, check out my French Butter Cake, another recipe that brings simple ingredients into a beautiful, welcoming dish.

Ingredients
For this Chocolate Raspberry Cake, the ingredient list is straightforward, but each element plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour – This is the base that keeps your layers tender but sturdy.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetness that balances the tartness of the raspberry filling.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – High quality cocoa gives a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs – Room temperature eggs help the batter bind perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk – For moisture and richness; you can substitute with buttermilk for a tangier touch.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist without heaviness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances every flavor layer.
- 1 cup boiling water – Adds moisture and blooms the cocoa for intense chocolate flavor.
For the raspberry filling and frosting:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries (thawed) – For the authentic, fresh raspberry filling.
- ½ cup sugar – To sweeten the filling.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the raspberry filling nicely.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – For a smooth buttercream frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream – For creamy frosting texture.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the raspberry filling just a little.
If you want to splurge on one ingredient, make it the unsweetened cocoa powder. I find that it makes the biggest difference in turning this chocolate raspberry dessert into something truly indulgent.
You’ll find the best cocoa powder and fresh raspberries at your local farmer’s market or specialty grocery stores. For year-round convenience, frozen raspberries work wonderfully too—just thaw them before making the filling.
If you prefer a lighter version of this frosted cake, swap the buttercream for a whipped cream topping or mascarpone frosting. This berry chocolate cake is forgiving and welcomes customization!
For ingredient prep, set all your dairy and eggs out 30 minutes before baking to keep batter smooth. Store leftover raspberries in the fridge in an airtight container to keep them fresh for your next Chocolate Raspberry Cake adventure.
This Chocolate Raspberry Cake ingredient list is surprisingly simple but delivers incredible comfort! If you want to try other layers of complex yet doable chocolate desserts, the Chocolate Mint Crinkles Delight is a great match to bake alongside.
Let’s Make This!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This step helps your layers come out cleanly—your Chocolate Raspberry Cake deserves a beautiful presentation!
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Keep it light and airy by sifting these ingredients if you have time.
3. Create the wet batter: In a separate bowl, beat eggs lightly, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture slowly into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until smooth. Try not to overmix here; a few small lumps are fine.
4. Add boiling water slowly: This is a crucial step. The boiling water helps bring out the chocolate flavor while keeping the batter smooth and moist. The batter will be thin—this is perfect and expected for your Chocolate Raspberry Cake!
5. Divide and bake: Pour batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted near the center to check doneness—it should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.
6. Prepare the raspberry filling: While the cake cools, combine raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer. Let it cool completely.
7. Make the frosting: Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then heavy cream until fluffy and spreadable.
8. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread half of the raspberry filling evenly. Top with the second cake layer, then frost the entire cake with your buttercream frosting. This step is where your Chocolate Raspberry Cake transforms into something truly special.
Don’t worry—your Chocolate Raspberry Cake is going to turn out beautifully! While it’s baking, take a moment to enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen. For troubleshooting, if your cake feels too dense, try swapping out vegetable oil for melted butter next time, or check that your baking soda is fresh.
If this recipe brings you joy, you’ll love the creamy layers of Italian Love Cake for another rich chocolate raspberry dessert experience.
Serving & Presentation
When it’s time to enjoy your Chocolate Raspberry Cake, a little attention to presentation makes all the difference. Use a serrated knife, slicing gently to keep those moist layers intact. Serve on pretty plates to showcase the vibrant raspberry filling peeking through the chocolate.
This cake is perfect for birthdays, cozy family dinners, or holiday celebrations. I always notice how people’s faces light up with the first bite—there’s something about the combination of rich chocolate cake and tangy raspberry filling that creates the sweetest moments.
Pair this Chocolate Raspberry Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple pot of tea. These little touches complement the fresh berry notes and chocolate richness beautifully without overpowering the flavors.
If you have leftovers, don’t throw them out! Chocolate raspberry dessert from the fridge makes a delightful midday treat or elegant breakfast alongside coffee. You might also want to try a summer variation by swapping fresh raspberries for blackberries or strawberries.
When looking for ideas beyond my recipe, Mon Petit Four’s Chocolate Raspberry Cake with Mascarpone Frosting offers an inspired version emphasizing creamy textures and fresh fruit highlights.
This Chocolate Raspberry Cake creates the sweetest moments at family dinners! The simplicity of slicing and sharing it sparks connection every time.
FAQs
Can I make this Chocolate Raspberry Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake layers and filling can be prepared a day in advance. Store them separately wrapped tightly. Assemble and frost the cake just a few hours before serving for the freshest presentation and taste.
What if I don’t have fresh raspberries?
Frozen raspberries work wonderfully. Just thaw completely and drain any excess juice before making the filling, so it isn’t too watery.
How do I know when my Chocolate Raspberry Cake is perfectly done?
Use the toothpick test: insert it toward the center, and when it comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter, it’s ready. The cake should spring gently when pressed.
Can I use a different frosting for this Chocolate Raspberry Cake?
Definitely! Cream cheese frosting, mascarpone frosting, or whipped cream all make lovely alternatives that still complement the chocolate and raspberry beautifully.
How long will this Chocolate Raspberry Cake keep?
Store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes even better once flavors fully meld.
Is this recipe gluten-free adaptable?
You can swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Be sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Wrap the frosted cake slices tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a ready-made treat.
This Chocolate Raspberry Cake recipe has gathered warm feedback from my community who love its balance of comfort and fruit brightness. If you have doubts, remember one community member’s note: “It feels fancy but bakes in an afternoon, a perfect fuss-free dessert!”
For more discussions and adaptations, check out Dark Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Filling and Buttercream Recipe on Facebook, where fellow food lovers share their successes and tips.
You’re going to create beautiful memories with this Chocolate Raspberry Cake. Cozy in, have fun, and reach out if you want me to help tweak the recipe!
Why This Chocolate Raspberry Cake Will Become Your New Favorite
This Chocolate Raspberry Cake perfectly embodies what I love about home cooking: comfort, connection, and genuine satisfaction with every bite. It doesn’t require complicated techniques, yet it delivers a dessert that feels special and unforgettable.
My Chocolate Raspberry Cake Success Tips:
- Use boiling water to gently bloom unsweetened cocoa powder—that’s the secret to deep chocolate flavor.
- Let your raspberry filling cool fully before spreading to avoid melting frosting.
- Always sift your dry ingredients for an extra tender crumb.
Over time, I’ve created variations on this recipe that bring even more joy: adding a touch of espresso powder to intensify chocolate richness, swapping in mascarpone frosting for a creamy twist, and layering with fresh blackberries for seasonal fun.
The version with mascarpone frosting (like in this inspired Chocolate Raspberry Cake with Mascarpone Frosting – Mon Petit Four) earns the most smiles during summer get-togethers.
I hope you’ll make this Chocolate Raspberry Cake part of your delicious memories. I’m confident you’ll find joy in every step and delight in each bite. When you do, please share your beautiful results—I love hearing how these recipes bring comfort and smiles to your kitchen!
For more comforting cake ideas that brighten your baking moments, check out French Butter Cake and Italian Love Cake. Here’s to many sweet Chocolate Raspberry Cake moments ahead!

Chocolate Raspberry Cake
Indulge in this rich and moist Chocolate Raspberry Cake, perfectly blending the deep flavors of chocolate with the fresh tartness of raspberries. A delightful dessert ideal for any special occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 ½ cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in boiling water carefully; batter will be thin.
- Fold in fresh raspberries gently to distribute evenly.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream frosting between cake layers and over the top, then sprinkle chocolate chips on top for garnish.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, serve this cake chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce.