Decadent Chocolate Layered Cake

There’s something undeniably special about a rich, chocolate layered cake that can make any celebration feel even more festive! This decadent cake, filled with luscious chocolate buttercream and topped with shiny ganache, is a treat that will delight both chocolate lovers and those with a sweet tooth. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a casual get-together, this cake is bound to be the centerpiece of the occasion.

Why make this recipe?

Why settle for a simple dessert when you can wow your friends and family with a stunning chocolate layered cake? This recipe combines strong flavors with a moist texture, creating a cake that’s perfect for any event. The combination of rich cocoa, buttercream, and ganache elevates this cake to a level of indulgence that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Plus, it’s great for honing your baking skills!

How to prepare Decadent Chocolate Layered Cake

Ingredients:

• 🥄 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 🍫 80 g (2/3 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 🥄 2 tsp baking powder
• 🥄 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
• 🍚 300 g (1 1/2 cups) granulated sugar
• 🥚 2 large eggs
• 🥛 240 ml (1 cup) milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
• 🌻 120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
• 🌼 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ☕ 240 ml (1 cup) hot coffee or hot water
• 🧈 200 g (1 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature (for buttercream)
• 🍬 300 g (2 1/2 cups) powdered sugar (for buttercream)
• 🍫 75 g (2/3 cup) cocoa powder (for buttercream)
• 🥛 2–3 tbsp milk or cream (for buttercream)
• 🌼 1 tsp vanilla extract (for buttercream)
• 🧂 Pinch of salt (for buttercream)
• 🍫 300 g (10 oz) dark chocolate, chopped (for ganache)
• 🥛 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream (for ganache)
• 🧈 2 tbsp butter (optional, for ganache)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with hot coffee or water. Mix until just combined.
5. 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.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the buttercream: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Add milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until fluffy.
8. For the ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. If using, add butter for extra shine.
9. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of buttercream on top, then add the second layer. Cover the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
10. Drizzle the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to flow down the sides.

How to serve Decadent Chocolate Layered Cake

Slice this beautiful cake into generous pieces, and serve it as a delightful dessert after dinner or at a special event. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

How to store Decadent Chocolate Layered Cake

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor.

Tips for preparing Decadent Chocolate Layered Cake

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use the scoop-and-level method for the flour to avoid a dense cake.
• Let the cakes cool completely: This will prevent the buttercream from melting.
• Feel free to customize: Add chocolate shavings, fruits, or nuts for added flavor and garnish.

Variations

• Chocolate Mint: Add mint extract to the buttercream or ganache for a refreshing twist.
• Peanut Butter: Substitute part of the butter in the buttercream with peanut butter for a delicious pairing.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap until you’re ready to frost and serve.

2. How can I make it gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

3. What can I use instead of coffee?
You can use hot water or milk instead of coffee, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor.

Enjoy baking this Decadent Chocolate Layered Cake and delight your loved ones with every rich, chocolaty bite! 🎂🍫