Chocolate Layer Cake

Introduction:

This decadent Chocolate Layer Cake is a dream for any chocolate lover. It’s made with soft, moist layers of chocolate cake, filled with rich chocolate buttercream, and topped with a silky ganache. Perfect for special occasions, this cake is not only indulgent but also easy to make at home.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4–5 tablespoons heavy cream

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
4. Make the Batter:
   • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Add boiling water, and stir until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Buttercream:

1. Beat the Butter:
   • In a stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy.
2. Add the Dry Ingredients:
   • Sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Gradually add them to the butter, beating on low speed until incorporated.
3. Add Vanilla and Cream:
   • Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.

For the Ganache:

1. Heat the Cream:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just boiling.
2. Make the Ganache:
   • Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using it to top the cake.

Assembly:

1. Layer the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of chocolate buttercream on top. Place the second cake layer over the buttercream and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
2. Add the Ganache:
   • Pour the cooled ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
3. Decorate (Optional):
   • Use extra buttercream to pipe decorative swirls on top, if desired.

Conclusion:

This Chocolate Layer Cake is a showstopper with its rich layers of moist cake, creamy buttercream, and smooth ganache. Whether for a birthday or a special gathering, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy every chocolate craving!