Description
Ultimate Triple Chocolate Indulgence Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake Batter:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Ganache:
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, and mix until the batter is smooth.
Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top of each pan.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Ganache:
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Let the ganache cool slightly to thicken for easy spreading.
Assemble and Decorate:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of ganache over the top.
Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides for a glossy, indulgent finish.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or extra chocolate chips, if desired.
Time Breakdown:
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect cake. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. When adding the boiling water, do so slowly while mixing on low speed to prevent splashing. The thin batter is normal. For the ganache, use a serrated knife to chop the chocolate finely for a smooth melt. When assembling, consider using a turntable and offset spatula for a professional, even coat of ganache on the sides.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice slightly warmed to enhance the gooey chocolate chips. Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to cut the richness. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt, fresh berries, or a drizzle of raspberry coulis. This cake pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
How-to Summary
To create this Ultimate Triple Chocolate Indulgence Cake: mix dry ingredients, add wet ingredients including boiling water to create a thin batter, then fold in chocolate chips. Bake two layers, cool completely, and prepare a simple dark chocolate ganache by pouring hot cream over chopped chocolate. Assemble by stacking the layers with ganache in between, then frost the entire cake with the remaining ganache for a decadent finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache? Yes, but it will be sweeter and softer. For best results, use high-quality baking chocolate.
Why is boiling water added to the batter? The hot water blooms the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor, and helps create a moist, tender crumb.
Can I make this cake in advance? Absolutely. Bake the layers up to 2 days ahead, wrap tightly in plastic, and store at room temperature. Frost the day of serving.
My ganache split or became grainy. How can I fix it? This happens if the cream was too hot. Add a tablespoon of cold cream and whisk vigorously to re-emulsify it.
Can I use a different pan size? For three 8-inch pans, reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes. For a 9×13 sheet cake, bake for 35-40 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter after adding flour, which develops gluten and leads to a tough cake.
- Using cold ingredients, which can cause the batter not to emulsify properly.
- Pouring ganache over a warm cake layer, causing it to melt and slide off.
- Boiling the heavy cream for the ganache, which can scorch the chocolate and create a greasy texture.
- Not properly greasing and flouring the pans, resulting in cakes that stick and break.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Triple Chocolate Indulgence Cake is a show-stopping dessert that balances deep cocoa flavor with luxurious, creamy ganache. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create a moist, rich, and visually stunning cake perfect for any celebration. Its combination of textures and intense chocolate satisfaction is sure to earn its place as a legendary recipe in your collection.