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Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Indulging in a rich and decadent dessert can brighten any occasion, and the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake is sure to impress. This luscious cake combines layers of moist chocolate cake with a creamy cheesecake filling, creating a delightful treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

Why make this recipe?

There are many reasons to whip up this Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake. It’s the perfect centerpiece for celebrations, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a well-deserved treat for yourself! The blend of cocoa-rich chocolate cake and smooth cheesecake is a match made in dessert heaven. Plus, making this cake from scratch is not only gratifying but also allows you to customize each layer to perfection.

How to prepare Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Ingredients:

200g (1 1⁄2 cups) all-purpose flour 🥣
75g (2⁄3 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
1 1⁄2 tsp baking powder 🥄
1 1⁄2 tsp baking soda 🥄
1⁄2 tsp salt 🧂
250g (1 1⁄4 cups) granulated sugar 🍬
2 large eggs 🥚
240ml (1 cup) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar) 🥛
120ml (1⁄2 cup) vegetable oil 🛢️
1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
240ml (1 cup) hot coffee or hot water ☕
450g (16 oz) cream cheese, room temp 🧀
100g (1⁄2 cup) granulated sugar 🍬
2 large eggs 🥚
1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
2 tbsp all-purpose flour 🥣
120ml (1⁄2 cup) sour cream or plain yogurt 🍶
300g (10 oz) dark chocolate, chopped 🍫
240ml (1 cup) heavy cream 🍶
2 tbsp butter (optional) 🧈
Optional toppings: Chocolate shavings or curls 🍫, Cocoa powder or powdered sugar for dusting 🍬, Berries or gold leaf for decoration 🍇✨

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. 🏠
Make the Chocolate Cake: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the granulated sugar and mix well. Then, add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Gradually stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared 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 before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 🍰
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, along with the vanilla extract, and mix until incorporated. Add the flour and sour cream, mixing until smooth.
Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake filling into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Ganache: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it’s hot but not boiling. Pour the cream over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Whisk until smooth and shiny. If desired, stir in the butter for extra richness.
Assemble the Cake: Once everything is cool, slice each chocolate cake in half to create four layers. Place one layer on a serving plate, top with cheesecake, then add another layer of chocolate cake. Repeat until you have stacked all layers. Pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Decorate: Finish with your choice of optional toppings like chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or fresh berries. 🎉

How to serve Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Slice the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake into generous pieces and serve it on dessert plates. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Enjoy! 🍨

How to store Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. ❄️

Tips for preparing Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother cheesecake filling.
Avoid Overmixing: When adding eggs to your cake batter and cheesecake filling, mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your cake will greatly depend on the quality of chocolate you use. Choose a good-quality dark chocolate for the ganache! 🍫

Variations

Flavor Swap: You can swap the chocolate cake for a vanilla or red velvet cake base for a different flavor profile.
Fruit Add-ins: Incorporate fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries into the layers for a fruity twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the cheesecake filling?

While cream cheese is traditional, mascarpone can be used for a different flavor and creaminess.

2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make this cake gluten-free.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a DIY buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 240ml (1 cup) of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. 🥛

With its rich layers and creamy filling, this Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Don your apron and gather your ingredients—your dessert masterpiece awaits! 🎂✨