Rich Dark Chocolate Layer Cake

Rich Dark Chocolate Layer Cake

 decadent, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee
• Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.

Slowly pour in the hot coffee while stirring until the batter is smooth.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 25-30 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.

Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Stir in the butter for extra silkiness. Let it cool until it thickens slightly but is still spreadable.

Decoration Tips:

Spread a generous layer of ganache between each cake layer for a rich, velvety texture.

Lightly dust the top with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the deep chocolate flavor.

Pipe small swirls of whipped ganache or buttercream around the edges for a polished look.

Garnish with chocolate curls or dark chocolate chunks for a dramatic effect.

Happy Baking