Decadent Chocolate Cake

Description:

This Decadent Chocolate Cake is the perfect balance of moist, fluffy layers and rich, chocolatey goodness. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or a simple sweet craving, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Topped with a silky chocolate frosting, every bite melts in your mouth!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups (450g) powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal!
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy. Add more cream if needed to reach the desired consistency.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides. Smooth with a spatula or create decorative swirls.

4. Serve:

1. Slice and serve the cake as is, or garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of ganache.

Tips for Success:

• For extra moistness, brush each cake layer with simple syrup before frosting.
• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
• Chill the cake for 20 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Recommendations:

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of milk for a classic combo.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition (per slice, approximate for 12 servings):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Sugar: 45g

This Chocolate Cake is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any occasion!