Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

If you’re a chocolate lover, then this Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake is a dream come true! This cake combines rich chocolate layers with creamy cheesecake, resulting in a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an anniversary, or just a special dessert for your family, this cake will surely impress everyone.

Why make this recipe?

Making Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating a memorable experience. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors, and the visual appeal of the layers makes it an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to show off your baking skills!

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 (for shine, optional)
• 🍫 Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
• 🍫 Cocoa powder or powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
• 🍓 Berries or gold leaf for decoration (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. 🏠
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. 🍚🍫
3. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. 🥣
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Then, slowly stir in the hot coffee or water. ☕
5. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. ⏱️
6. For the cheesecake filling, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and flour, and mix well. Finally, stir in the sour cream or yogurt. 🧀
7. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Pour the cheesecake filling into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Let it cool completely. 🔥
8. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until simmering. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. If using butter, add it for a shiny finish. 🍫
9. Once everything is cooled, layer the chocolate cakes and cheesecake, spreading ganache between layers and over the top. Decorate with chocolate shavings, berries, or dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar if desired. 🍓✨

How to serve Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Slice the cake into generous servings and serve it chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! 🍦

How to store Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within a few days but can last up to a week chilled. You can also freeze individual slices for up to two months. Just wrap them well! ❄️

Tips for preparing Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the cooling steps; this helps the layers set up perfectly.
• You can bake the cakes and cheesecake in advance and assemble them later.

Variations

• For a mocha flavor, use coffee or espresso powder in the cake batter.
• You can add a flavored liqueur to the ganache for an adult twist.
• Swap the dark chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different size cake pan?
A: Yes, you can adjust the baking time if using larger or smaller pans. Just keep an eye on them as they bake!

Q: What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
A: Don’t worry! You can cover it with ganache, whipped cream, or fruit to hide any cracks.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the layers and cheesecake a day in advance and assemble them the next day. Just make sure to store them properly.

Now you are ready to create your very own Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake! Enjoy the baking experience and the delicious results! 🎂🍫