Introduction
Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede lovers, this one’s for you!
As a chef who has baked hundreds of chocolate cakes, I can confidently say this Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe 2026 is one of the richest, most satisfying desserts you can recreate at home.
» The first time I tasted the Chocolate Stampede at Longhorn Steakhouse, I knew it wasn’t just a dessert… it was an experience. Deep chocolate flavor, soft cake layers, creamy frosting, and that glossy ganache dripping down the sides—pure comfort on a plate.
After multiple test bakes, I created this copycat homemade recipe that stays true to the original while being easy enough for home bakers. If you love bold chocolate flavor and bakery-style cakes, you’re going to fall in love with this one.
So, let’s get started!
👉 What Is Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede?
The Chocolate Stampede is Longhorn Steakhouse’s most famous dessert—and for good reason.
» A multi-layered chocolate cake loaded with flavor
» Filled and frosted with rich chocolate icing
» Finished with a smooth chocolate ganache
» Served as a large, indulgent slice meant to be shared
From a chef’s perspective, this cake works because it balances sweetness with deep cocoa notes. It’s not dry, not overly sugary—just bold, moist, and satisfying.
👉 Why You’ll Love This Copycat Chocolate Stampede Recipe
I designed this recipe with real home kitchens in mind.
» No fancy tools required
» Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
» Can be made ahead for stress-free hosting
» Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special dinners
» Tastes just like the Longhorn Steakhouse original
Chef tip 👨🍳:
This cake always gets compliments—even from people who “don’t like chocolate desserts” (they always go back for seconds!).
👉 Kitchen Tools For Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe
You don’t need fancy bakery tools—just reliable basics.
» Mixing bowls (medium & large)
» Measuring cups & spoons
» Hand mixer or stand mixer
» Whisk & rubber spatula
» Cooling rack
» Offset spatula (for frosting)
» Saucepan (for ganache)
» Cake pans (round or rectangular)
👨🍳 Chef tip:
An offset spatula makes frosting cleaner, but a regular spoon works too.
Ingredients for Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe
Here are the ingredients needed for the Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe 2026 dessert — with exact quantities.
👉 For Chocolate Cake Layers
| 🍫 Chocolate Cake Layers | |
|---|---|
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1½ teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1½ teaspoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Large eggs | 2 (room temperature) |
| Milk or buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil or melted butter | ½ cup |
| Warm water or hot coffee | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
👨🍳 Chef note:
Hot coffee deepens the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.
👉 For Creamy Chocolate Frosting
| 🧁 Creamy Chocolate Frosting | |
|---|---|
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Powdered sugar | 3½–4 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ½ cup |
| Heavy cream or milk | ¼–½ cup (as needed) |
| Vanilla extract | 1½ teaspoons |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Start with less cream and add slowly for perfect frosting texture.
👉 For Chocolate Ganache Topping
| 🍯 Chocolate Ganache Topping | |
|---|---|
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Dark or semi-sweet chocolate (chopped) | 8 oz (1 cup) |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
👨🍳 Chef tip:
Use real chocolate bars, not chips, for a smoother ganache.
👉 For Optional Garnishes
| ✨ Optional Garnishes | |
|---|---|
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Chocolate shavings or curls | ¼ cup |
| Cocoa powder (for dusting) | 1 teaspoon |
| Whipped cream | As needed |
Chef note:
I always recommend good-quality cocoa powder—it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
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Step-by-Step Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe
Here’s the detailed step-by-step Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe 2026 with my exclusive tips you can follow.
🍽️ Serving: 8–10 slices
⏱️ Prep Time: 25 minutes
🛌 Cook Time: 40 minutes
🛑 Resting Time: 30 minutes
⏲️ Total Time: 90 minutes
💲Estimated Cost: $10–$14 Approx.
👉 Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Cake Batter
♥ Start by preheating your oven and greasing your cake pans well.
♥ In a large bowl, whisk the following ingredients gently: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
♥ In a separate mixing bowl, mix the following: eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
♥ Slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry ones until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
Don’t overmix—stop as soon as everything comes together. Overmixing makes the cake dense.
👉 Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers
♥ Now, divide the chocolate batter evenly between the prepared pans.
♥ Bake until the cakes rise, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
♥ Every oven is different. Check the cake properly to avoid overbaking.
👉 Step 3: Cool the Cakes Completely
♥ Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
♥ Allow them to cool fully before frosting.
♥ Never frost a warm cake—the frosting will melt and slide off.
What chocolate is best for ganache?
Dark or semi-sweet works best.
👉 Step 4: Make Creamy Chocolate Frosting
♥ In another mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s a bit smooth and fluffy.
♥ Add cocoa powder and powdered sugar in batches, alternating with cream or milk. Beat until smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
If frosting feels thick, add cream one tablespoon at a time. Soft frosting gives clean layers.
👉 Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
♥ Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just warm—not boiling.
♥ Now, gently pour the ganache over the chopped chocolate and stir until it becomes shiny and smooth.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
Let ganache cool slightly before using—it should pour slowly, not run fast.
👉 Step 6: Assemble the Chocolate Stampede
♥ Now, you need to place one cake layer on a plate gently. Spread an even layer of chocolate frosting.
♥ Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides lightly.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
Chill the frosted cake for 10–15 minutes before adding ganache for a neat finish.
👉 Step 7: Add Ganache, Finish, and Serve!
♥ Pour the ganache from the center of the cake and gently guide it toward the edges so it drips naturally.
♥ Now, it’s the time to slice serve and enjoy.
👨🍳 Chef Tip:
For that restaurant look, don’t overwork the ganache—natural drips look best.
✅ Final Chef’s Note
This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe 2026 is all about balance—soft cake, creamy frosting, and silky ganache working together.
Take your time with each step, and you’ll end up with a dessert that looks and tastes just like it came from the steakhouse kitchen.
✨ Final Look & Texture
This cake should look and feel like a steakhouse-style dessert.
» Tall, layered appearance
» Dark, rich chocolate color
» Smooth frosting with soft edges
» Moist, tender crumb inside
» Ganache gently dripping down the sides
When sliced, the layers should hold their shape but melt in your mouth.
Types of Layers in Chocolate Stampede Dessert Recipe
As a chef, I always say this dessert works because of its well-balanced layers, not just chocolate overload.
» Chocolate Cake Layers – Soft, moist, and deeply chocolatey; these form the base and structure.
» Chocolate Frosting Layers – Creamy and smooth, adding richness without being too sweet.
» Chocolate Ganache Topping – Glossy, silky, and indulgent, giving that signature restaurant-style finish.
Each layer plays its role, creating a dessert that feels luxurious but not heavy.
Ingredient Substitutes For Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede
Sometimes you work with what you have—and that’s okay.
» Eggs → Yogurt (eggless option): ¼ cup per egg
» Butter → Oil: Use vegetable oil for extra moisture
» Buttermilk → Milk + Lemon: Add 1 tsp lemon juice per cup
» Dark Chocolate → Semi-sweet: Slightly sweeter but still rich
👨🍳 Chef note:
Substitutes work best when measured carefully.
👉 Ingredient Tips (Chef-Approved)
| Ingredient | Best Choice | Chef’s Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cocoa Powder | Unsweetened, Dutch-processed | Gives deeper chocolate flavor |
| Chocolate | Dark or semi-sweet | Avoid candy melts |
| Butter | Unsalted | Better control over taste |
| Eggs | Room temperature | Helps cake rise evenly |
| Cream | Heavy cream | Needed for smooth ganache |
Is this the same as chocolate lava cake?
No, this is a layered cake, not a molten center dessert.
Tips for the Best Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede
These are some lessons learned from many test bakes to make the perfect Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede cake:
» Use room-temperature ingredients
» Let cakes cool fully before frosting
» Beat frosting until light and fluffy
» Use warm (not hot) ganache
» Chill the cake slightly before slicing
» Don’t overbake—dry cake ruins everything
» Level cake layers for a professional look
Patience is your secret ingredient.
👉 Presentation Tips
You eat with your eyes first!
» Use a clean cake stand or dark plate
» Let ganache drip naturally
» Wipe plate edges before serving
» Smooth the sides lightly—don’t overwork
» Serve clean slices for that restaurant feel
👉 Topping & Layering Tips
Layering is where the magic happens.
» Apply thin frosting layers between cakes
» Chill briefly before adding ganache
» Let it flow—don’t force the drip
» Pour ganache from the center outward
Optional:
finish with chocolate curls or shavings
👉 Chocolate Stampede Variations
Want to make it your own? Try these chef-approved twists:
» Mini Chocolate Stampede cakes for parties
» Extra dark chocolate for a deeper flavor
» Top with chocolate shavings or curls
» Add espresso powder to boost the chocolate taste
👉 Storage & Make Ahead Tips
This cake stores beautifully.
» Refrigerate for up to 4 days
» Freeze slices for up to 2 months
» Bring to room temperature before serving
Chef tip:
Chocolate cake tastes even better the next day!
What to Serve with Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede
You can pair this Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe with something light.
» Vanilla ice cream
» Fresh whipped cream
» Hot coffee or espresso
» Cold milk (a classic!)
Alternate Recipes Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede
If you love this dessert, try these next:
» Chocolate Lava Cake
» Chocolate Mousse Cake
» Death by Chocolate Trifle
» Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake
» Triple Chocolate Brownie Cake
Each satisfies a different chocolate craving.
Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Price
» The Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede typically costs:
» $9–$11 per slice (price may vary by location and year)
Making it at home costs less and gives you multiple servings—chef wins!
Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Slice (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 900–1,100 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 95–110 g |
| Sugars | 70–85 g |
| Fat | 55–65 g |
| Protein | 8–10 g |
| Sodium | 400–500 mg |
This is an indulgent dessert—no hiding that!
♥ High in calories and carbs
♥ Best enjoyed in moderate portions
♥ Rich in fats from chocolate and cream
♥ As I always say: desserts are meant to be enjoyed, not counted.
⚠️ Note:
These values are estimates and vary by portion size.
Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare and mix chocolate cake batter
- Bake cake layers until moist and fluffy
- Cool cake layers completely
- Prepare creamy chocolate frosting
- Make smooth chocolate ganache
- Assemble layers with frosting
- Pour ganache and let set before serving
Notes
- For the best flavor, use good-quality cocoa and real chocolate bars.
- Chill briefly before slicing for clean layers.
- This cake tastes even better the next day as flavors settle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead. In fact, the flavors develop even better after resting overnight, making it a great choice for parties or special occasions.
Why is my Chocolate Stampede cake dry?
A dry cake usually means it was overbaked or had too much flour. Measuring ingredients correctly and checking the cake early can help keep it moist and tender.
What chocolate works best for the ganache?
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best for ganache. Avoid chocolate chips, as they contain stabilizers that can affect the smooth texture and shine of the ganache.
Is this Chocolate Stampede recipe beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. The recipe uses simple techniques and clear steps, making it suitable for beginners. As long as you follow the instructions carefully, you’ll get a moist and rich chocolate cake.
Is Longhorn Chocolate Stampede the same as lava cake?
No, it’s different. Chocolate Stampede is a layered cake, while lava cake has a molten center. This dessert emphasizes rich layers and texture over a flowing chocolate center.
What is Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede made of?
The Chocolate Stampede is a layered chocolate dessert made with moist chocolate cake, creamy chocolate frosting, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Together, these layers create a rich, restaurant-style chocolate cake experience.
Can beginners make this?
Absolutely—just follow the steps.
My Final Conclusion
This Longhorn Steakhouse Chocolate Stampede Recipe 2026 holds a special place in my heart—and my kitchen. It’s rich, comforting, and guaranteed to impress.
» As a chef, I love seeing people recreate restaurant favorites at home, and this cake proves you don’t need a professional kitchen to bake something unforgettable.
Finally, if you have any thoughts or suggestion then, then write to me in the comment section below! – I’d love to hear from you!
If you make this cozy homemade recipe, bake it with love, share it with people you care about, and don’t forget—dessert is always worth it.
❤️Happy Baking!
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