Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe
If you’re craving a luscious, not-too-sweet dessert that’s both nostalgic and unique, this Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe will absolutely capture your heart. Imagine layers of tender, chocolatey crust sandwiching the creamiest, gently tangy filling, all crowned with a glossy chocolate glaze that begs to be sliced into. This cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for special gatherings or cozy afternoons with tea. The secret is in the farmers cheese, which delivers a subtle richness and texture you won’t find in any ordinary cheesecake—making this treat satisfyingly distinctive every time you bake it.

Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday, approachable ingredients, this Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe delivers incredible flavors and stunning contrast. These aren’t just pantry staples—they’re the building blocks that give each layer its own personality, from fudgy crust to tangy middle to silky topping.
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture to both the crust and the chocolate glaze.
- Egg yolk: Gives the crust extra tenderness and color; save the white for the filling.
- Milk: Loosens up the crust dough and adds a bit of extra flavor.
- All-purpose flour: The essential structure for a delicate, sliceable crust.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides that deep, chocolatey flavor in both the crust and the glaze.
- Baking soda: Gives the crust a subtle lift and a lovely texture.
- Farmers cheese: The star of this cake—use fresh, crumbly cheese for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and the glaze perfectly, with just the right level of indulgence.
- Large eggs: Help bind the filling, creating that creamy, custard-like center.
- Potato starch or cornstarch: Makes the cheese filling beautifully smooth and sliceable.
- (Optional) Grated lemon zest: A bright touch that lifts the filling and balances the chocolate.
- Water: Essential for smoothing out the chocolate glaze and making it easily pourable.
- Fresh fruit (optional garnish): A pile of raspberries or strawberries makes this cake pop with freshness and color.
How to Make Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe
Step 1: Make the Crust Dough
Start by buttering a 9-inch springform or deep pie pan, lining it with parchment. In a big bowl, cream together your softened butter, that gorgeous egg yolk, and milk until everything looks pale and fluffy. Then, sift in the flour, cocoa, and baking soda. Mix it together with your hands until a soft dough forms—don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky. Divide the dough in half, roll each section into a ball, wrap in plastic, and freeze them for 45 minutes. Freezing makes the dough easy to grate for that signature craggy crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
While your dough chills, it’s time to whip up the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the farmers cheese, sugar, three large eggs plus the extra egg white, and the starch. Use a mixer on low, or a sturdy spatula, to blend it all together until smooth but not runny. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in grated lemon zest for a little sunshine. The farmers cheese filling should look creamy but hold its shape—this is what will make your Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take one dough ball from the freezer and grate it straight into your prepared pan, spreading the shreds to cover the base evenly with a patchwork look—this prevents leaks and gives every bite some chocolate crust. Pour your cheese filling over top, smoothing it out, then grate the second dough ball onto a plate and sprinkle evenly over the filling. Place the cake on the middle rack, with a baking sheet or foil underneath to catch any possible drips, and bake for 30-35 minutes. The edges will set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle, like a good cheesecake.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
Patience is key here—let the cake cool completely to room temperature before you even think about the glaze. This keeps the layers distinct and the glaze from melting right off. Once cooled, either leave the cake in the pan or gently transfer to your serving platter, ready for its chocolate crown.
Step 5: Make and Add the Chocolate Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and water. Heat gently while stirring, letting everything melt together until you have a smooth, shiny, pourable glaze with no sugar granules left. Off the heat, let it cool to room temperature so it won’t melt your beautiful cake. Pour generously over the top, tilting the cake gently for coverage. Pop the cake in the fridge until that glaze is set and glistening, like a fancy pastry shop treat.
How to Serve Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe

Garnishes
The crowning glory of this cake is how you finish it. A heap of fresh raspberries scattered on top not only looks stunning but also contrasts wonderfully with the chocolate and creamy cheese. A light dusting of powdered sugar or some curls of shaved chocolate will take your Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe straight into showstopping territory.
Side Dishes
This cake is perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of sweet dessert wine. For a full spread, pair with a simple fruit salad, gently whipped cream, or a tangy berry compote. These accompaniments highlight the creamy filling and cut through the cake’s richness in the most delightful way.
Creative Ways to Present
For a celebratory vibe, slice your cake into wedges and serve each piece on a colorful plate, topped with a sprig of mint and a scattering of berries. Or, turn the Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe into elegant mini cakes using small springform pans—a beautiful touch for parties. You can even use edible flowers for a dreamy dessert table centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices of Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe store beautifully in the fridge. Just cover with plastic wrap or pop into an airtight container, and they’ll stay perfectly fresh and creamy for up to 4 days. The texture actually improves overnight, making each bite even more melt-in-your-mouth.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead, this cake freezes surprisingly well. After baking and glazing, let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole cake in layers of plastic and foil. Freeze for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for that just-baked freshness.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you love a warmer texture, microwave a slice on low for 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate glaze and gives the cheese filling a just-set silkiness that’s absolutely divine.
FAQs
Can I use ricotta or cream cheese instead of farmers cheese?
While ricotta or cream cheese will give a similar texture, true farmers cheese lends a unique tang and crumbly quality you can’t quite replicate. If you substitute, try to use a firmer, drier cheese for the closest result to the classic Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe.
Is the lemon zest necessary?
The lemon zest is entirely optional, but it brightens the filling and cuts through the chocolate for a fresh twist. If you love citrus desserts, go for it! Otherwise, the classic version is delicious on its own.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. Most gluten-free flour mixes work beautifully here, keeping the crust tender and the overall flavor spot-on.
What is the best way to keep the crust from sticking?
Butter and parchment paper are your friends! Always line the base of your springform or pie pan, and make sure to spread the grated dough evenly for a sturdy, easy-to-release crust. Letting the cake cool completely before removing also helps maintain clean layers.
Can I make Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe in advance?
Yes, this cake is a dream for planning ahead! Assemble and bake it a day before your gathering, and finish with the glaze once cool. The flavors meld beautifully after resting overnight, making it even more delicious on day two.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about baking a Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe—from the rustic feeling of grating chocolate dough, to the first creamy bite. If you’re ready to fall in love with a cake that feels like a hug from the inside out, give this recipe a try and share the deliciousness with someone you love. Happy baking!
PrintFarmers Cheese Chocolate Cake Recipe
Indulge in the decadent delight of this Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake. A rich and creamy cheese filling nestled between layers of cocoa-infused crust, topped with a luscious chocolate glaze. This dessert is a celebration of flavors and textures that will delight any chocolate lover.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 9-inch cake 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Crust:
- 14 tablespoons (1 3/4 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 1/2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 tablespoon baking soda
Cheese Filling:
- 1.5 pounds farmers cheese
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs + 1 leftover egg white
- 1 1/2 tablespoons potato starch or cornstarch
- (Optional) Grated zest of 1 lemon
Chocolate Glaze:
- 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Make the Crust: Butter a 9-inch round springform pan or deep pie pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, egg yolk, and milk until smooth. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Use your hands to mix until a dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into balls, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Freeze for at least 45 minutes or until firm.
- Make the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine farmers cheese, sugar, eggs, leftover egg white, and starch. Mix on low speed until smooth and well combined. (Optional) Add grated lemon zest for a hint of citrus flavor.
- Assemble the Cake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove one ball of frozen dough from the freezer. Grate it into the prepared pan, evenly spreading it across the base and ensuring full coverage to prevent the filling from leaking. Pour the cheese filling over the grated crust, spreading it evenly. Grate the second ball of frozen dough onto a plate, then sprinkle it evenly over the cheese filling. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. To prevent spills, place a baking sheet or foil on the bottom oven rack. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature before adding the glaze.
- Make the Chocolate Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and water. Melt the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let the glaze cool to room temperature. Once the cake and glaze are cool, pour the glaze evenly over the cake. Refrigerate until the glaze is fully set.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Farmers Cheese Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Cake Recipe, Cheese Filling Cake