Description
This rich and sumptuous chocolate layer cake is perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 and 1/2 cups heavy cream (for filling)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (for ganache)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing
- Chocolate shavings or pieces, for decoration
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
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In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until the batter is well combined (it will be thin).
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to cool completely on a wire rack.
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In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
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Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream until it starts to simmer, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly before using.
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Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides.
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Garnish with chocolate shavings or pieces and additional whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the cakes are completely cool before adding the filling and ganache to prevent melting.
- To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the batter.
- For a richer flavor, let the assembled cake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: About 350
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg