If you’re searching for a nostalgic, utterly delicious dessert that combines layers of moist cake, creamy filling, and a rich, chocolatey coating, then the Susie Q recipe is your perfect match. This classic Southern treat has been cherished for generations, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make every bite a celebration.
Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet moment for yourself, Susie Q is guaranteed to impress with its luscious filling sandwiched between tender cake layers, all enrobed in a luscious chocolate glaze.
This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, yet the end result feels sophisticated enough for special occasions. Plus, you’ll love how versatile it is—you can tweak the filling or the topping to suit your taste.
Ready to bake a timeless dessert that’s both comforting and elegant? Let’s dive into the Susie Q recipe that will soon become your go-to for sweet celebrations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Susie Q is a beloved classic for a reason. It features a perfect combination of textures: a soft, fluffy cake layered with a creamy, vanilla custard-like filling and finished with a smooth, chocolate glaze.
Each component complements the others beautifully, resulting in a harmonious dessert that delights the palate.
Another reason you’ll love making Susie Q is its simplicity. With easy-to-find ingredients and clear instructions, it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
The recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully. Its nostalgic appeal also makes it a conversation starter at any gathering.
Lastly, Susie Q is incredibly customizable. If you want to explore variations, you can add nuts, swap the filling, or even experiment with different chocolate toppings.
This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity while keeping that classic charm intact.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
- For the filling:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the chocolate glaze:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
- Knife for slicing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Set aside.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Make the filling: In a saucepan, combine milk, flour, cornstarch, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Whisk the egg yolks in a separate bowl. Slowly pour about half of the hot milk mixture into the yolks, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool completely.
- Slice the cooled cake horizontally into two even layers using a sharp knife.
- Spread the cooled filling evenly over the bottom layer. Carefully place the top layer back on the cake.
- Prepare the chocolate glaze: In a bowl, sift together powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and pourable. If glaze is too thick, add a little more milk.
- Pour the chocolate glaze over the cake, spreading evenly to cover the top and sides. Refrigerate the Susie Q for at least 2 hours before serving to set the glaze and filling.
Tips & Variations
For a lighter filling, substitute the whole milk in the filling with half-and-half or cream. If you prefer a fruit twist, add a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam beneath the filling for a fruity surprise.
Ensure the cake is completely cooled before slicing to avoid crumbling. When tempering the eggs for the filling, pour the hot milk mixture slowly and whisk constantly to prevent scrambled eggs.
If you want a more decadent chocolate flavor, add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the glaze. For a nutty texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze before it sets.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 85 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 28 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Serving Suggestions
Susie Q is best served chilled or at room temperature. For an extra special touch, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
A cup of hot coffee or tea complements the rich chocolate and creamy filling beautifully, making it an ideal dessert for afternoon gatherings or after-dinner indulgence.
If you’re hosting a party, cut the Susie Q into small squares for easy serving and elegant presentation. Fresh berries on the side add a pop of color and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness.
For a festive twist, try sprinkling a little edible gold dust or powdered sugar on top just before serving to make your Susie Q look as stunning as it tastes.
Conclusion
Making a Susie Q from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings a piece of Southern culinary heritage right into your kitchen. This recipe combines simple ingredients and classic techniques to create a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive.
Its layers of tender cake, creamy filling, and rich chocolate glaze make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, Susie Q offers an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. Plus, with plenty of room for customization and variations, this recipe can evolve with your tastes and creativity.
For more delicious recipes that celebrate wholesome ingredients and easy preparation, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
📖 Recipe Card: Susie Q
Description: Susie Q is a rich, chocolatey layered cake with a fudgy filling and fluffy frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a special dessert treat.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until fluffy.
- Add melted butter and vanilla to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture; stir until combined.
- Pour batter into greased 9×9-inch pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Let cake cool completely before assembling.
- Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate chips to make ganache; stir until smooth.
- Spread ganache over cooled cake.
- Whip powdered sugar with remaining cream to make frosting and spread on top.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 35 g
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