Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with Ganache

Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with Ganache

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Ganache:

• 8 ounces (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

Instructions:

Make the Cake:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
   • Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.
4. Bake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Filling:

1. Whip Cream:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

Make the Ganache:

1. Heat Cream:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
2. Melt Chocolate:
   • Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
   • Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute.
   • Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer and Fill:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
   • Spread the whipped cream filling over the top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
2. Frost with Ganache:
   • Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Use a spatula to smooth it over the top and sides if needed.
3. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the ganache.

Tips:

• Decorate: Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for an extra touch.
• Ganache Flavor: Add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur to the ganache for a unique flavor.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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