Description
A rich and indulgent chocolate layer cake filled with vanilla buttercream and topped with chocolate ganache.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Decorations (e.g., chocolate shavings, nuts, or fruit)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter becomes smooth and thin.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Vanilla Buttercream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Frosting: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then add butter and stir until smooth. Allow it to cool until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the vanilla buttercream evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top of the buttercream. Frost the entire cake with the chocolate ganache, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Decorate: Add desired decorations on top, such as chocolate shavings or fruit.
Notes
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for better texture.
- Use a serrated knife to level the cakes before frosting for a more professional look.
- Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to help set the ganache.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice