Description
Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Ganache Filling:
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Decoration:
Assorted chocolate bars, chopped
Mini chocolate chips
Chocolate shavings or curls
Instructions:
Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla, and mix until smooth. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool completely.
Make the Ganache: Heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Cool until slightly thickened.
Prepare the Frosting: Beat butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla, beating until creamy and smooth.
Assemble the Cake: Layer the cakes with ganache spread between each layer. Frost the entire cake with chocolate frosting.
Decorate: Top the cake with assorted chocolate bars, mini chocolate chips, and chocolate shavings for a dramatic effect.
Notes:
For a richer taste, use a mix of dark and milk chocolate in the ganache.
Chill the cake slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Prep Time: 30 mins | Baking Time: 35 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Kcal: 720 per slice | Servings: 12
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Pans & Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for guaranteed release.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to eliminate lumps.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until completely smooth.
4. Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin; this is correct and ensures a moist cake.
5. Bake & Cool: Divide batter evenly among pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
6. Make Ganache: Heat cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 3-5 minutes, then whisk until glossy and smooth. Let cool to a spreadable consistency.
7. Make Frosting: Beat softened butter for 3 minutes until pale and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream and vanilla, beating until light and creamy.
8. Assemble: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half the ganache evenly. Repeat with second layer and remaining ganache. Top with final cake layer.
9. Frost & Decorate: Apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting over the entire cake and chill for 15 minutes. Apply the final, thick layer of frosting. Generously press chopped chocolate bars, mini chips, and shavings onto the sides and top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice slightly chilled for clean cuts, but allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating for optimal flavor and texture. Pair with a cold glass of milk, a bold cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the intense chocolate. For a special presentation, drizzle individual plates with raspberry coulis or caramel sauce before placing the cake slice.
How-to Summary
Create this epic cake by mixing a thin, boiling-water chocolate batter and baking three layers. While they cool, make a simple dark chocolate ganache by pouring hot cream over chips. Whip up a creamy cocoa-butter frosting. Assemble the cake by stacking layers with ganache in between. Frost the entire cake and decorate with an overload of chocolate pieces for a stunning, decadent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time? Absolutely. Once completely cooled, wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling.
My ganache is too runny. How can I fix it? Let it sit at room temperature longer, stirring occasionally. For a quicker fix, place the bowl in the refrigerator for 10-minute intervals, stirring each time, until it thickens.
What can I use instead of boiling water in the cake? The boiling water helps “bloom” the cocoa powder for maximum flavor. Strong, hot coffee is an excellent substitute and will enhance the chocolate taste without adding coffee flavor.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache? Yes. Semi-sweet, milk, or a mix of dark and milk chocolate will work. Note that milk chocolate will make a sweeter, softer ganache.
How do I store the finished cake? Store in an airtight container or cake carrier at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let chilled slices come to room temperature before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for proper emulsification and a smooth batter/frosting.
- Overmixing the batter after adding flour, which can develop gluten and lead to a tough cake.
- Pouring hot ganache onto the cake layers, which will melt the crumb and make a mess. Let it cool and thicken first.
- Skipping the parchment paper lining, which risks the moist cake layers sticking and breaking.
- Not letting the cake layers cool completely before assembly, causing the frosting and ganache to melt.
Conclusion
The Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake is a true celebration of chocolate, designed to impress and satisfy the deepest cravings. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create this show-stopping dessert. The combination of moist cake, rich ganache, creamy frosting, and abundant chocolate decorations guarantees a memorable experience for any special occasion. Remember to slice with a warm knife for perfect portions and enjoy the delicious, decadent results of your baking masterpiece.