The Best Keto Chocolate Cake

by Joanna
1 comment

This keto chocolate cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers who follow a low carb lifestyle! Featuring ultra fluffy chocolate cake layers and a rich, creamy sugar-free chocolate cream cheese frosting, every bite is pure bliss. Made with coconut flour and naturally gluten-free ingredients, this decadent low carb chocolate cake has less than 5g net carbs per slice, making it perfect for special occasions or satisfying a sweet tooth without breaking your keto goals. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a cozy dessert, this easy keto chocolate cake recipe is sure to impress!

Sugar-free chocolate cake with almond flour layers and a chocolate buttercream center.

Calling all chocolate lovers—this keto chocolate cake is for you!

If you’re on a keto diet and still want to enjoy a rich, indulgent dessert, this low carb chocolate cake is incredibly chocolaty, perfectly moist, and surprisingly easy to make. It’s ideal for satisfying those sweet cravings without the sugar crash.

I actually made this cake for my husband’s birthday at the beginning of the month, and—believe it or not—no one even realized it was keto until I told them!

Not only does it look like a classic celebration cake, but it tastes just like a traditional chocolate cake. Imagine two fluffy layers of coconut flour chocolate cake, slathered in a velvety sugar-free chocolate cream cheese frosting, and topped with a smooth layer of melted dark chocolate. It’s a dream come true for any chocolate fan.

This keto chocolate cake recipe is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just treating yourself to something truly special. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used for keto chocolate cupcakes, mini cakes, or even a layer cake for a bigger crowd.

Keto Chocolate Cake

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chocolate Cake Recipe

  • Stays perfectly moist for days – This low carb chocolate cake stays soft and fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep, special occasions, or whenever those chocolate cravings strike.
  • Extra rich, tender, and satisfying – Each bite is incredibly soft and tender, thanks to the coconut flour and a balanced mix of ingredients that create the perfect cake texture.
  • Intense chocolate flavor – Made with unsweetened cocoa powder and a sugar-free chocolate frosting, this cake is full of bold, deep chocolate flavor that tastes just like the real thing—without the carbs.
  • Only 5g net carbs per slice – A true keto-friendly dessert that lets you enjoy cake while staying on track with your goals.
  • Quick and easy to make – This simple keto dessert recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, no complicated steps or chilling time required.
  • Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or you just want a slice of guilt-free chocolate cake, this recipe is sure to impress even non-keto eaters.
  • Gluten-free and grain-free – Made entirely with coconut flour, this cake is suitable for anyone avoiding gluten or grains.
  • Versatile recipe – Turn this cake into cupcakes, a layer cake, or even a sheet cake—it’s a reliable base for all your keto dessert ideas.

Ingredients for the Best Keto Chocolate Cake

This keto chocolate cake recipe is made with simple, pantry-staple ingredients that are easy to find and perfect for low-carb baking. Each component has a purpose, so make sure to follow the recipe as written for the best results.

Flat lay of keto chocolate cake ingredients like eggs, almond flour, cocoa, and sweetener.
  • Eggs – These are essential for binding and giving the cake a rich, fudgy texture. Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter and better rise. Pro tip: place cold eggs in warm water for about 10 minutes before mixing.
  • Coconut Flour – Coconut flour is used to create a soft and fluffy cake structure while keeping the recipe gluten-free and low in carbs. It’s highly absorbent, so don’t substitute it with almond flour, as the texture will not turn out the same.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Use a high-quality cocoa powder for deep, bold chocolate flavor. Whether you choose regular or Dutch-processed, make sure it’s unsweetened and rich in taste.
  • Sweetener – I used a powdered erythritol blend, but Monk Fruit Sweetener or Allulose are great options too. These natural sweeteners are keto-approved, with no aftertaste and a texture that mimics real sugar.
  • Butter – Adds moisture and buttery richness to the cake. For dairy-free options, coconut oil works, but note it may slightly alter the flavor.
  • Baking Powder – This helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light and fluffy.
  • Vanilla Extract – Use a good quality vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor of the cake. It brings out the chocolatey notes and adds warmth to the dessert.
  • Unsweetened Almond Milk – Keeps the batter smooth and adds moisture without adding extra carbs. It’s a great low-carb milk alternative for baking.
  • Salt – A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and intensify the chocolate flavor.
Two-layer low-carb chocolate cake covered in ganache and dark chocolate chips.

How To Make Keto Chocolate Cake

I’ve never seen a keto cake recipe that’s so easy to make. To make sure your batter consistency is right, watch my quick step-by-step video showing you exactly how to make the best keto cake.

Make the coconut flour chocolate cake. Sift all the dry ingredients into a bowl to remove any clumps. This step is not essential but helps a lot with the final texture and makes the cake super fluffy.

Mixing cocoa powder and almond flour in a glass bowl for keto chocolate cake batter.

Beat the wet ingredients with an electric mixer until the egg mixture looks frothy.

Using a hand mixer to beat eggs until fluffy for keto chocolate cake.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.

Folding together wet and dry ingredients for keto chocolate cake batter.

Divide the batter between two 8 inch cake pans lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven until the top looks firm.

Chocolate cake batter poured into a round cake pan ready for baking.

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Meanwhile make the frosting.

Perfectly whipped low-carb chocolate frosting for cakes and cupcakes.

Frost the cake with my keto chocolate frosting.

Spreading keto chocolate frosting on the cake layer using a spatula.

Decorate and enjoy!

Close-up of cake layering and spreading frosting between layers.

Tips for Making the Best Keto Chocolate Cake

Follow these expert tips to ensure your keto chocolate cake turns out moist, rich, and chocolatey every time:

  • Cool Completely Before Frosting – Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before spreading the cream cheese frosting. If the cake is even slightly warm, the frosting can melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful finish.
  • Prepare Your Pans Properly – To avoid sticking and make removing the cakes easier, spray the pans with nonstick spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures clean release and prevents the cake from crumbling.
  • Don’t Overbake – Overbaking can lead to a dry and crumbly texture, especially when baking with coconut flour. Keep a close eye on the cake during the last few minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center — if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
  • Enhance the Chocolate Flavor – Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder or strong instant coffee granules to the batter. This doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee — it simply intensifies the chocolate flavor, giving it a deeper, richer profile.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Bring your eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and lump-free frosting, and ensures even baking.
  • Sift Dry Ingredients – For the fluffiest texture, sift the coconut flour and cocoa powder before mixing. This removes clumps and ensures even distribution.
  • Let the Cake Set – After frosting, let the cake sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set properly and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
  • Use a Springform Pan – For easy removal and a professional look, bake your cake in a 9-inch springform pan. It also helps maintain the structure of the delicate low-carb cake layers.
Rich chocolate slice from a keto-friendly cake, showing off its tender, moist interior.

Can You Turn This Into Keto Cupcakes?

Yes, and it’s super easy to do! Here’s how you can convert the recipe into fluffy, moist keto chocolate cupcakes:

  1. Prepare the Batter
    Follow the original cake instructions to prepare the chocolate batter using coconut flour, eggs, cocoa powder, and the rest of the ingredients.
  2. Line the Cupcake Pan
    Grab a 12-cup muffin tin and line it with paper or silicone cupcake liners. This makes removing the cupcakes easy and keeps them mess-free.
  3. Fill the Liners
    Scoop the batter evenly into the liners, filling each about ¾ full to allow room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
  4. Bake
    Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake—watch closely!
  5. Cool Completely
    Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack. This is essential before frosting, as warm cupcakes will melt the cream cheese frosting.
  6. Frost and Serve
    Once cool, top each cupcake with your sugar-free chocolate cream cheese frosting or any favorite keto frosting. Use a piping bag for a beautiful swirl, or simply spread it with a spatula.
Double chocolate keto cake with rich filling and moist almond flour layers.

Delicious Keto Chocolate Cake Variations

  • Add a Cup of Hot Coffee – Mixing in 1 cup of freshly brewed hot coffee with the batter intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a richer, more velvety texture. Don’t worry—your cake won’t taste like coffee, but it will have that extra deep, bakery-style chocolate richness!
  • Garnish with Fresh Berries – Top your frosted cake with a few fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. They add a natural sweetness and tartness that pairs perfectly with chocolate while keeping the carb count in check.
  • Sprinkle with Chopped Nuts – Add some crunch and texture by sprinkling chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top of the frosting. You can also fold them into the batter for a nutty surprise in every bite.
  • Add Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips – Fold sugar-free dark chocolate chips or chopped keto chocolate into the batter before baking. This makes your cake even more decadent with melted chocolate pockets.
  • Swirl in Nut Butter – Swirl in a couple of tablespoons of natural almond butter or peanut butter into the batter before baking for a delightful nutty twist.
  • Peppermint Twist – Add ½ tsp of peppermint extract to the batter for a cool, minty chocolate cake that’s perfect for the holidays or special occasions.
  • Coconut Dream – Sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut on top of the frosting or gently fold it into the batter to complement the coconut flour and add extra texture.
Smooth ganache layer with sugar-free chocolate chips topping a keto layer cake.

How To Store This Delicious Keto Chocolate Cake

  • Fridge: Store the cake in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: The cake layers and frosting will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake layers and frosting overnight in the refrigerator. Bring the frosting to room temperature, and mix well. The frosted cake can also be frozen for three months, then thawed overnight in the fridge.

More Keto Desserts

Sugar-free chocolate cake with almond flour layers and a chocolate buttercream center.

Keto Chocolate Cake

5 from 9 votes

Prep time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Yelds 14 slices

Description
 

This keto chocolate cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers who follow a low carb lifestyle! Featuring ultra fluffy chocolate cake layers and a rich, creamy sugar-free chocolate cream cheese frosting, every bite is pure bliss. Made with coconut flour and naturally gluten-free ingredients, this decadent low carb chocolate cake has less than 5g net carbs per slice, making it perfect for special occasions or satisfying a sweet tooth without breaking your keto goals. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just want a cozy dessert, this easy keto chocolate cake recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients
  

Keto Chocolate Cake

Drip Glaze

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
  • Make the keto chocolate cake: Combine the melted butter, almond milk, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix for 2 minutes until frothy.
    how to make Keto Chocolate Cake
  • In a large bowl, add the coconut flour, sweetener, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to break any lumps.
    how to make Keto Chocolate Cake
  • Combine the dry and wet ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth(as shown in the video). Allow the batter to sit for 5 minutes. If the batter looks too thick, add a few almond milk tablespoons until it thins out.
    how to make Keto Chocolate Cake
  • Pour the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-22 minutes in the preheated oven until firm to touch. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
    how to make Keto Chocolate Cake
  • how to make Keto Chocolate Cake
  • Assemble the keto chocolate cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate, and cover with half of the chocolate frosting. Top with the second layer and evenly spread the rest of the frosting.
    Spreading keto chocolate frosting on the cake layer using a spatula.
  • Chocolate Drip Glaze: Melt together the sugar-free chocolate chips and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth. Cool completely, then pour the glaze over the cake.
    Close-up of cake layering and spreading frosting between layers.
  • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before slicing.
  • Tightly cover the cake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Amount per serving.
Calories
256kcal
Total Carbs
7g
Net Carbs
Protein
4g
Fat
23g
Fiber
4g
Sugar
2g

How do we calculate the nutrition info?

These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword keto cake, keto chocolate cake
Tried this recipe?Mention @MyketoPlate_ or tag #MyKetoPlate!

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5 from 9 votes (8 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




1 comment

Pat K March 12, 2023 - 9:18 pm

5 stars
Just made the cake. It’s cooling waiting for frosting!

Reply

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