Elegant chocolate forest Cake

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
• Gradually add the boiling water and stir until the batter is thin and well combined.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Mousse:

• Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
• Heat the heavy cream and sugar in a saucepan 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 minutes to soften the chocolate.
• Stir the mixture until smooth, then add the vanilla extract.
• Allow the mousse to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to firm up.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated. Set aside.

4. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

• Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it starts to simmer.
• Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
• Stir in the butter for extra richness.
• Let the ganache cool slightly, so it thickens and is ready to drizzle over the cake.

5. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes have cooled completely, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
• Place one layer of cake on a cake stand or serving platter.
• Spread a layer of chocolate mousse over the cake, then top with a second layer of cake. Repeat this process with mousse and cake layers until all the layers are stacked.
• Spread a thin layer of whipped cream frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to set.

6. Frost and Decorate:

• Once the crumb coat is set, use the remaining whipped cream frosting to cover the entire cake smoothly.
• Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it run down the sides.
• For a forest effect, you can decorate the cake with chocolate bark, chocolate shavings, or curls on the sides, making it look like tree bark.
• Top with fresh berries, mint leaves, and optional edible flowers to create an elegant, natural look.
• Add more chocolate shavings or curls on top for an extra touch of elegance.

7. Serve:

• Slice into your Elegant Chocolate Forest Cake and enjoy the rich layers of chocolate, mousse, and frosting. It’s sure to be a favorite for any special occasion or gathering!

This cake is not only stunning to look at but also incredibly delicious, with layers of deep chocolate flavor, creamy mousse, and a delicate whipped cream frosting. The addition of berries and chocolate bark gives it a whimsical “forest” feel, making it perfect for a sophisticated celebration or a special treat. Would you be making this cake for an event or just because you’re craving something indulgent?