Decadent Chocolate Cake

Here’s a recipe for Decadent Chocolate Cake a rich, moist, and indulgent cake perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water or hot coffee (for extra depth of flavor)

For the chocolate ganache (optional topping):

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the cake batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Gradually add the boiling water or hot coffee to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay!
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

2. Bake the cake

1. Bake the cakes at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the chocolate ganache

1. While the cakes are cooling, make the ganache by heating the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not boil).
2. Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the butter until fully combined and the ganache is glossy. Let it cool for a few minutes before pouring over the cake.

4. Assemble the cake

1. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a layer of ganache over the top of the first cake layer.
3. Place the second cake layer on top, then pour the remaining ganache over the entire cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decadent look.

5. Serve and enjoy!

1. Allow the ganache to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving your Decadent Chocolate Cake!

Tips

• For an even richer flavor, replace the boiling water with hot coffee. It enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.
• Make sure to let the cake layers cool completely before frosting, as warm cakes can cause the ganache to melt too much.
• You can add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for extra decoration.

Enjoy your Decadent Chocolate Cake a perfect, indulgent treat for any chocolate lover!