Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling and Chocolate Ganache

Decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling and Chocolate Ganache

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup finely chopped chocolate (optional for texture)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
• Carefully add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until combined. The batter will be thin.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• 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 remove them from the pans and cool completely on wire racks.

2. Make the Cream Filling:

• In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
• If desired, fold in the finely chopped chocolate for texture.
• Keep refrigerated until ready to use.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

• 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 in a bowl and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to soften the chocolate.
• Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
• Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate.
• Spread the cream filling evenly over the top of the first layer.
• Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
• Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
• Use a spatula to smooth the top, if desired.

5. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set the ganache.
• Slice and enjoy!

This cake combines moist chocolate layers with a light cream filling and rich ganache, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy your baking!