Ultimate Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

This rich and moist chocolate layer cake is made with soft chocolate sponge, filled and covered with silky chocolate ganache, and decorated with chocolate chips. Perfect for any celebration!

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour – Gives structure to the cake.
• ½ cup (50g) cocoa powder – Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with moisture.
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Adds extra moisture and a slight caramel taste.
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise.
• ½ tsp baking soda – Reacts with acidic ingredients to make the cake fluffy.
• ½ tsp salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – Provides structure and richness.
• ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk – Adds moisture and tenderness.
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the cake soft and moist.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• ¾ cup (180ml) hot coffee or hot water – Intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a moist texture.

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 ½ cups (270g) dark chocolate – Use chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips.
• ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream – Creates a smooth and silky ganache.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds shine and richness.

For Decoration:

• ½ cup (100g) chocolate chips – For topping.
• Additional ganache for piping – To create decorative swirls.

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Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Make sure all dry ingredients are well combined to ensure an even texture in the cake.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while stirring gently with a whisk or spatula.
5. Add the Hot Coffee:
   • Slowly pour in the hot coffee or hot water while stirring continuously.
   • The batter will be thin and runny, which is normal. This helps create a moist cake.
6. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
   • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the Cream:
   • Pour the heavy cream into a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it just starts to simmer (do not boil).
2. Melt the Chocolate:
   • Place the chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
   • Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir Until Smooth:
   • Gently stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
   • Add the butter and stir until fully incorporated.
   • Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Slice the Cake into Layers:
   • Once the cake is completely cooled, use a sharp serrated knife to cut it into three even layers horizontally.
2. Layer the Ganache:
   • Place the bottom layer of cake on a plate.
   • Spread a generous layer of chocolate ganache evenly over the surface.
   • Place the second layer on top and repeat the process.
   • Add the final layer and cover the entire cake with a thin coat of ganache.
3. Apply the Final Coat:
   • Spread a thick layer of ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
   • Use a spatula to smooth out the surface.

Step 4: Decorating the Cake

1. Pipe the Ganache:
   • Fill a piping bag with some extra ganache and use a star tip to create decorative swirls along the edges.
2. Add Chocolate Chips:
   • Sprinkle chocolate chips on top and along the sides for extra crunch and decoration.

Step 5: Chilling and Serving

• Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
• Slice and serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

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Tips for the Best Chocolate Cake

✅ Use hot coffee instead of water – It enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
✅ Let the cake cool completely before slicing – Cutting a warm cake may cause it to break.
✅ Chill the ganache before piping – If it’s too runny, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
✅ Store leftovers properly – Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.