Chocolate Lava Layer Cake

Description:

This Chocolate Lava Layer Cake combines the best of both worlds: a moist chocolate cake layered with gooey, molten chocolate centers that spill out with every slice. It’s the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers, making it the perfect centerpiece for celebrations or decadent evenings in.

Origin:

A modern twist on the classic molten lava cake, this layered version adds sophistication and visual appeal to the much-loved dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water or hot brewed coffee

For the Lava Filling:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Frosting (Chocolate Ganache Frosting):

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Optional Ingredients:

• Fresh berries or whipped cream for garnish
• Chocolate curls or cocoa powder for decoration

Instructions:

1. Make the Cake Layers:
   • Preheat your 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, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Gradually mix in boiling water or coffee until the batter is well combined. The batter will be thin.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Lava Filling:
   • Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming (do not boil). Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 1–2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly to thicken but remain pourable.
3. Make the Ganache Frosting:
   • Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl, add butter, and stir until smooth. Let cool to a spreadable consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Scoop out a shallow circle in the center of the cake to create a “well” for the lava filling. Pour the lava filling into the well, spreading it slightly but keeping it away from the edges.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides with the ganache frosting.
5. Decorate:
   • Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate curls, or a dusting of cocoa powder as desired.

Tips for Success:

• Let the lava filling cool but stay pourable to avoid soaking into the cake.
• Chill the cake briefly before frosting to keep layers stable.
• Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor in the lava and ganache.

Recommendations:

• Serve slightly warm to enjoy the molten center. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible combination.

Nutrition (per slice, approximate for 12 slices):

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 45g
• Sodium: 300mg

Indulge in this luxurious Chocolate Lava Layer Cake and savor every gooey, chocolatey bite!