Chocolate Truffle Layer Cake

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract together.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Slowly add the boiling water (or coffee) to the batter. It will be thin, but that’s okay—this creates a super moist cake.
• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in 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. Make the Chocolate Truffle Filling:

• Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (don’t boil).
• Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
• Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Let the truffle mixture cool and thicken to room temperature, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up, stirring occasionally.

3. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

• Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer.
• Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
• Stir in the butter until combined.
• Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring over the assembled cake.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes have cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally, creating four layers in total.
• Place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a layer of the chocolate truffle filling on top, smoothing it out evenly.
• Repeat the process with the remaining layers of cake and truffle filling, stacking them carefully.
• Once all layers are stacked, 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 moving on to the garnish.

5. Garnish & Serve:

• Garnish the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or curls for a touch of elegance.
• Optionally, add fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a slight contrast to the richness.
• Let the cake set for a bit to allow all the layers to meld together before slicing and serving.

This Chocolate Truffle Layer Cake is rich, moist, and oh-so-decadent, making it the perfect indulgent treat for any chocolate lover. Each layer is filled with smooth chocolate truffle filling, and the glossy ganache makes it look as beautiful as it tastes! Enjoy this slice of heaven! 🍫🎂