Super Bowl Desserts Mini Chocolate Layer Cakes

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Mini Chocolate Layer Cakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 mini cakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup hot water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baked Meals

I absolutely love making these Super Bowl Desserts Mini Chocolate Layer Cakes for game day! They are not only adorable but also incredibly delicious. With layers of rich chocolate cake and creamy frosting, they’re the perfect way to celebrate with friends and family. Plus, the mini size makes them a hit for portion control – you can enjoy a sweet treat without going overboard. I love how easy they are to assemble, making them a go-to for any gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:40:54.612Z

I remember the first time I made these mini chocolate layer cakes for a Super Bowl party. I wanted to create something special that would wow my friends and keep them fueled for the game! After several trials, I perfected the balance of rich chocolate and light frosting, making them irresistible.

My biggest tip is to let each layer cool completely before frosting. It ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and maintains those beautiful layers. Each bite is a delightful mixture of cake and cream, and I promise they won’t last long on the table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor that everyone will adore
Perfectly portioned for easy sharing and indulging
Deliciously rich frosting that complements the cake perfectly

Mastering the Chocolate Cake

Achieving the perfect chocolate cake requires attention to your ingredients and technique. The cocoa powder you select plays a significant role in the flavor; using high-quality, unsweetened cocoa will yield a richer taste. Also, don’t skip on the hot water – it activates the cocoa powder, enhancing the cake's moistness. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid a dense texture. Over-mixing can lead to a tougher crumb.

Before pouring the batter into your muffin tin, make sure it's thoroughly greased or lined with paper cups. This will help you avoid the disappointment of stuck cakes that tear apart when removing them. Filling each cavity halfway allows room for the cakes to rise without spilling over. Baking times can vary by oven; checking for doneness with a toothpick is key. If it comes out with wet batter, give the cakes an additional minute or two.

Frosting Finesse

The frosting is the crowning glory of your mini cakes, and the key to a light yet decadent texture lies in beating your butter to a creamy state before adding other ingredients. This process introduces air, resulting in a fluffier frosting. Gradually incorporating powdered sugar can help prevent a dusty mess and make the mixture easier to combine. If your frosting seems too thick, carefully add a splash more heavy cream until you reach your desired spreading consistency.

For a creamy and glossy finish, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature – about 65°F (18°C) is ideal. If you inadvertently over-whip the frosting, you can rescue it by mixing in a tablespoon of powdered sugar or cocoa powder to thicken it back up. Also, consider using a piping bag to frost the mini cakes for a professional touch. This not only makes the frosting more visually appealing but can also help with portion control.

Assembling Your Mini Cakes

Assembling these mini cakes allows for creativity in presentation. Once you slice the cakes in half, think about alternating layers of frosting and fillings like fruit preserves or even flavored cream for an extra twist. Just a thin layer of jam can add a delightful burst of flavor that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. Ensure your frosting layer isn't too thick when stacking, as it could lead to an unstable tower of deliciousness.

For best results, allow the assembled mini cakes to set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the frosting firm up slightly, making them easier to transport and decorate. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, I recommend consuming them within two days for the freshest taste and texture. Enjoy your mini chocolate layer cakes as a sweet finale to your Super Bowl gathering!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients to make these delightful mini cakes:

For the Chocolate Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you'll be set to make these delightful mini cakes!

Instructions

Here’s how to create your mini chocolate layer cakes:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, then stir in the hot water until blended.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cavity halfway. Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Mini Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally. Spread a layer of frosting on the bottom half, then place the top half back on. Frost the top with a generous layer of frosting, and repeat for all cakes.

Let the mini cakes set for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, decorate with sprinkles or chocolate shavings. These mini cakes can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these mini cakes gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. However, be sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the gluten structure for a better rise and texture. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil instead of butter and almond or soy milk as the liquid component. This way, you won’t compromise on moistness while catering to dietary needs.

For those wanting to reduce sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like agave or stevia, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the cake’s texture and taste. Also, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting by substituting some of it with a mashed ripe avocado to still achieve a creamy consistency without the added sweetness.

Make-Ahead Tips

These mini chocolate layer cakes can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy game days. You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to develop, improving taste and texture. Frosting can also be made ahead; just keep it refrigerated, and let it come to room temperature before you assemble the cakes.

If you want even more flexibility, the individual cakes can be frozen once cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and they’ll keep for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving. Preparing ahead means you can spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

Consider garnishing your mini chocolate layer cakes with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a pop of color and extra flair, enhancing the visual appeal for your guests. A drizzle of chocolate ganache can take them to the next level and add a luxurious touch to your Super Bowl spread. You can simply melt some chocolate with heavy cream and allow it to cool until pourable.

These mini cakes are versatile and can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. I also love serving them on a rustic wooden platter for a homely, inviting presentation. This way, your treats not only taste divine but also look stunning, making them the perfect centerpiece for your game day celebration!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the cake layers in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day or two ahead and keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What alternative would you suggest for the frosting?

You can try cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist or a whipped cream topping for a lighter option.