Here’s a recipe for the Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake —a rich, decadent, and indulgent chocolate dessert that will satisfy all your chocolate cravings!

This cake is the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream! Rich, moist layers of chocolate cake, enveloped in a smooth, creamy chocolate frosting, and topped with decadent ganache and chocolate shavings. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or whenever you need an over-the-top chocolate treat!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water
• 1 cup (240g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (or more, depending on desired consistency)
• 2 oz (55g) dark chocolate, melted

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed

For the Garnish (optional):

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Slowly add the hot water to the batter, mixing until fully combined (the batter will be thin).
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
4. Beat in the melted dark chocolate until fully combined.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and heavy cream.
2. Heat the mixture in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
3. Stir in the butter until smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly to thicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a generous amount of chocolate frosting over the first cake layer.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining chocolate frosting.
4. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
5. Smooth out the ganache with a spatula if necessary.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or curls, and fresh berries if desired.
2. Refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to set the ganache, or serve immediately for a more gooey finish.
3. Slice and indulge in the ultimate chocolate indulgence!

Tips:

• For an even richer flavor, use a combination of dark and milk chocolate in the frosting and ganache.
• If you prefer a more dense cake, you can substitute sour cream or yogurt for some of the milk in the batter.
• Make ahead: This cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container for optimal flavor.

Enjoy your Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake—a dessert that’s rich, chocolatey, and truly irresistible!