Description
Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake
Dive into the rich, decadent layers of this Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake, crafted for true chocolate lovers. Each bite offers an explosion of chocolate flavor, from the moist cake to the velvety chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For Topping:
• Chocolate shavings
• Chocolate chips
• Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
• Carefully add the boiling water to the batter, mixing slowly until smooth.
• Divide the batter evenly between 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.
2. Make the Chocolate Frosting:
• In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
• Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes.
• Add the butter and stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool to a pourable consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake:
• Slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
• Place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of chocolate frosting over it. Repeat with the remaining layers.
• Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for an indulgent look.
5. Decorate:
• Top the cake with chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, and a dusting of cocoa powder.
6. Serve:
• Slice and indulge in this ultimate chocolate experience.
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 12 slices
Unleash the chocolate lover in you with this irresistible cake!
#lovealletherecipes
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a flawless cake. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. When adding the boiling water to the cake batter, do so slowly while mixing on low speed to prevent splashing; the batter will be thin, which is normal. For perfect layers, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to split the cooled cakes. When making the ganache, ensure the cream is just simmering, not boiling vigorously, to prevent the chocolate from seizing. Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly before pouring for controlled drips.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is a showstopper on its own but can be elevated with simple accompaniments. Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the richness. For a gourmet touch, add a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of sea salt. Pair with a strong cup of black coffee or a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
How-to Summary
Create the moist chocolate cake layers by mixing dry ingredients, adding wet ingredients, then carefully incorporating boiling water. Bake and cool completely. Prepare a creamy cocoa frosting and a glossy chocolate ganache. Assemble by stacking four cake layers with frosting between each. Finish by pouring ganache over the top for a drip effect and decorating with chocolate shavings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost and assemble the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa? For the cake, it’s best to stick with natural unsweetened cocoa as the recipe uses baking soda. Using Dutch-processed may affect the rise. For the frosting, either type will work.
My ganache is too runny. How can I fix it? Allow it to cool at room temperature, stirring occasionally. For quicker thickening, place the bowl in the refrigerator for 5-10 minute intervals, stirring each time, until it reaches a pourable consistency.
How should I store the finished cake? Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Let slices come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
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. Always check for doneness with a toothpick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake.
- Adding hot ganache to a warm cake: Ensure both the cake and ganache are cooled. Warm cake will melt the frosting, and hot ganache will soak in instead of creating a shell.
- Not properly preparing pans: Grease, flour, and line pans with parchment paper to guarantee easy release and intact layers.
- Cutting the cake before it’s fully cooled: Patience is key. Cutting a warm cake will cause it to crumble.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake is a masterpiece of deep, rich flavors and stunning presentation. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can confidently create a professional-quality dessert that is sure to impress. Remember to avoid the common pitfalls, and don’t hesitate to personalize the decorations. The result is a truly unforgettable chocolate experience that celebrates the art of baking.