Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz (225g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well mixed.
4. Combine and Mix: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Gradually add the boiling water, stirring until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling:

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. Melt and Stir: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Let the filling cool to a spreadable consistency.

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

1. Heat Cream and Butter: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. Melt and Stir: Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer the Cakes: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top.
2. Cover with Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Use a spatula to smooth the ganache over the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate and Serve:

1. Decorate: If desired, decorate the top of the cake with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or mint leaves.
2. Chill: Let the cake set in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to firm up.
3. Serve: Slice and serve this rich, decadent chocolate cake to your guests.

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Layer Cake:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
• Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the filling and ganache for the best flavor.
• Level Cakes: If your cake layers dome in the center, level them with a serrated knife before assembling for an even, professional-looking cake.

Conclusion

This decadent chocolate layer cake is sure to impress with its rich flavors and elegant presentation. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion, this cake will be a hit with all chocolate lovers. Enjoy this indulgent dessert!