Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

A Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert, perfect for any celebration or when you simply want to indulge in something decadent. With layers of moist, fudgy chocolate cake, creamy frosting, and a gooey chocolate ganache, this cake is every chocolate lover’s dream. Here’s a recipe to create this irresistible dessert:

Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)

For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

Instructions:

1. Make the Chocolate Cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and beat until smooth.
   • Gradually add the boiling water (or coffee), mixing until combined. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Make the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined.
   • Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat for 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy. If it’s too thick, add a bit more cream; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
3. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
   • Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
   • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
   • Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to soften.
   • Stir the mixture until smooth. If you want extra shine, add a tablespoon of butter and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once the cakes are completely cool, place the first layer of cake on a serving plate.
   • Spread a generous layer of chocolate fudge frosting over the top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining chocolate fudge frosting.
   • Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
   • Let the ganache set for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake, enjoying its rich, chocolatey goodness!

Tips:

• Extra Moisture: If you want your cake to be even more moist, you can replace the boiling water with hot coffee, which enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Decorate: For a more decorative touch, you can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries on top of the ganache.
• Storing: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

This Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake is a showstopper with its layers of rich chocolate cake, smooth fudge frosting, and glossy ganache, perfect for any special occasion or whenever you need a chocolate fix!