Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake Recipe

I keep this recipe on hand because it’s reliable, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I like that it starts with a cake mix but tastes completely homemade. The texture stays soft for days, the chocolate chips add little bursts of sweetness, and the ganache glaze takes it over the top without requiring much effort.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 ounces for base cake
1 box instant vanilla pudding mix 3.4 ounces adds moisture and richness
¾ cup sour cream adds creaminess and moisture
¾ cup vegetable oil helps the cake stay moist
3 large eggs lightly beaten for structure
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract adds flavor
½ cup warm water helps incorporate dry ingredients
2 cups mini chocolate chips for that extra burst of chocolate

For the Glaze:

4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips melt for smooth glaze
½ cup heavy whipping cream for a rich creamy texture
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract adds flavor to glaze

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coating a 10- or 12-cup bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl or stand mixer, I combine the cake mix, pudding mix, sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and warm water. I beat everything on medium speed for about two minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.

I gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed, then pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and spread it out evenly. I bake the cake for 50 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top springs back when lightly touched. I let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate.

To make the glaze, I heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s hot but not boiling. I pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for about five minutes. I whisk until smooth, stir in the vanilla extract, and let the glaze cool for 5 to 10 minutes until thickened but still pourable. I pour the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides.

Servings and Timing

I make this bundt cake to serve 14 people. The prep time takes me about 20 minutes, the baking time is around 50 minutes, and I allow additional time for cooling and glazing. The total time comes to approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter cake. I also like adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to deepen the chocolate flavor. For a different finish, I skip the ganache and dust the cake with powdered sugar.

Storage/Reheating

I store this cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When I want to serve it again, I let it come to room temperature so the cake stays soft and the glaze remains smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

I use white or butter cake mix sometimes, and both work well.

Do mini chocolate chips work better than regular ones?

I prefer mini chips because they distribute more evenly throughout the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

I often bake it a day in advance and glaze it before serving.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking?

I generously coat the bundt pan with non-stick spray and make sure all crevices are covered.

Can I freeze this bundt cake?

I freeze the cake without the glaze, then thaw and glaze it later.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

I substitute plain Greek yogurt when needed, and it works well.

How do I know when the cake is done?

I check that a toothpick comes out clean and the top springs back lightly.

Can I use a hand mixer?

I use a hand mixer often, and it mixes the batter perfectly.

Why does the pudding mix matter?

I find it adds moisture and gives the cake a softer texture.

Can I add nuts to this cake?

I sometimes fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

Conclusion

I find this chocolate chip bundt cake to be a rich, moist, and dependable dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or simple celebrations. With its tender crumb, chocolate-filled bites, and smooth ganache glaze, it’s a recipe I love making whenever I want an easy cake that feels truly special.