7 Decadent Duff Goldman Cake Recipes

If you're a fan of delicious desserts and awe-inspiring cake designs, chances are you've heard of Duff Goldman, the charismatic chef behind Charm City Cakes. Renowned for his innovative approach to cake making, Goldman has inspired countless home bakers and professional pastry chefs alike. Here, we delve into seven of Duff Goldman's decadent cake recipes, each offering a unique taste and visual spectacle perfect for your next baking adventure.

1. The Epic Spiked Chocolate Cake

Starting off with a bang, this spiked chocolate cake is a testament to Goldman’s love for rich flavors and boozy undertones:

• Key Ingredients: Dark chocolate, cocoa powder, espresso powder, Guinness beer, and a splash of bourbon.
• Instructions:
  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a saucepan, combine Guinness with butter until melted, then add cocoa powder.
  3. Whisk together eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, then mix with the chocolate mixture.
  4. Combine dry ingredients, sift, and fold into the wet mix.
  5. Lastly, stir in a shot of bourbon for that extra kick. Pour into prepared cake pans and bake.

🍺 Note: When using alcohol in baking, remember that much of the alcohol content will evaporate during the cooking process, leaving behind only the flavor.

2. Duff’s Velvety Red Velvet Cake

No collection of cake recipes would be complete without the classic red velvet:

• Key Ingredients: Cocoa powder, buttermilk, red food coloring, and a cream cheese frosting.
• Instructions:
  1. Mix flour, cocoa, salt, and baking soda.
  2. In another bowl, blend butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then alternately add the dry mix and buttermilk.
  3. Incorporate red food coloring until you achieve the desired vibrant color.
  4. Bake in prepared pans and let cool. Frost with a tangy cream cheese icing.

3. The Ultimate Carrot Cake

With a mixture of spices and the addition of nuts and dried fruits, this carrot cake stands out:

• Key Ingredients: Freshly grated carrots, pineapple, raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Instructions:
  1. Whisk together eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla.
  2. Combine dry ingredients and slowly mix them into the wet mix.
  3. Fold in the carrots, pineapple, nuts, and raisins.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

🌰 Note: Adding pineapple to carrot cake adds moisture and a subtle hint of tropical flavor.

4. Duff’s German Chocolate Cake

A layered delight with a unique coconut-pecan frosting:

• Key Ingredients: Cake flour, Dutch-process cocoa, buttermilk, and the star of the show - a coconut-pecan frosting.
• Instructions:
  1. Cream together butter and sugar, add egg yolks, buttermilk, and vanilla.
  2. Alternately sift in dry ingredients with cocoa.
  3. Bake until done, then cool completely.
  4. Prepare the frosting by cooking egg yolks with evaporated milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla, then stir in coconut and pecans.
  5. Layer cake with frosting, then top with more.

5. The Intoxicating Champagne Cake

For celebrations or just because, this champagne cake is a toast-worthy treat:

• Key Ingredients: Champagne or sparkling wine, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla.
• Instructions:
  1. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one by one, followed by vanilla.
  3. Add flour mixture alternately with champagne, starting and ending with flour.
  4. Bake in prepared pans, then cool and decorate with champagne-infused frosting.

6. The Luxurious Hazelnut Dacquoise

This sophisticated dessert layers hazelnut meringue with rich chocolate and coffee buttercream:

• Key Ingredients: Hazelnuts, egg whites, sugar, chocolate, and coffee.
• Instructions:
  1. Toast and grind hazelnuts. Beat egg whites to stiff peaks, gradually adding sugar.
  2. Fold in ground hazelnuts, pipe onto baking sheets, and bake at low heat until crisp.
  3. Prepare buttercream, splitting into two parts - one with chocolate, another with coffee.
  4. Layer meringues with buttercream, stack, and chill to set.

7. Duff’s Dreamy Banana Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

This recipe brings a nostalgic twist with its comforting flavors:

• Key Ingredients: Ripe bananas, cinnamon, brown sugar, and homemade brown butter.
• Instructions:
  1. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla.
  2. Mix dry ingredients with cinnamon and incorporate into the wet mix.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick comes out clean.
  4. While cooling, prepare the brown butter frosting by slowly cooking butter to a deep brown color, then mixing with powdered sugar and cream.

The versatility and creativity of Duff Goldman's recipes showcase how baking can transcend beyond traditional boundaries. His ability to merge flavors, textures, and art forms a delightful experience for anyone passionate about cakes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or an eager novice, these recipes provide an exciting canvas to practice your craft, turning simple ingredients into masterpieces that look as good as they taste.

Can I use different alcohols in the spiked chocolate cake recipe?

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Yes, you can experiment with other alcohols like whiskey, rum, or even flavored liqueurs, keeping in mind the flavor profile you wish to achieve.

How do I ensure my carrot cake isn’t too dry?

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To keep carrot cake moist, incorporate ingredients like grated carrots, pineapple, or applesauce, which add moisture and flavor.

What’s the best way to store Duff’s cakes?

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Store cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Freezing is also an option for longer storage.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the champagne cake?

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Yes, simply replace the champagne with an equal amount of sparkling water or a carbonated beverage for the same fluffy texture.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect meringue for the hazelnut dacquoise?

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Ensure your bowl is completely dry and free from any grease. Add sugar gradually to the egg whites, and bake at a low temperature for crispiness without browning.