Decadent Layered Chocolate Cake with Creamy Filling and Ganache: A Step-by-Step Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate chocolate cake recipe, look no further. This indulgent layered chocolate cake with a rich creamy filling and smooth chocolate ganache is the perfect dessert for special occasions or a luxurious treat anytime. With its moist chocolate sponge, layers of luscious cream filling, and silky ganache topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Cake Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich chocolate flavors and light, creamy textures. Whether you’re an amateur baker or an expert, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to make, yet the results are nothing short of gourmet. Plus, the ingredients used are readily available, making it easy to recreate this masterpiece in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) sugar
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Equipment Needed:
- 2 round 9-inch cake pans
- Stand or hand mixer
- Cooling rack
- Cake spatula
- Heatproof bowl for ganache
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until smooth. Finally, stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist and tender cake.
2. Baking the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
3. Making the Creamy Filling
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the creamy filling. Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then increase to medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Set the filling aside.
4. Preparing the Ganache
To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly so it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
5. Assembling the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of the creamy filling over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the top layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly and allowing it to drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
6. Decorating and Serving
For an elegant touch, pipe some of the leftover cream filling around the edges of the cake or add chocolate shavings, as seen in the image. You can also use fresh berries or nuts as a garnish for added texture and color.
Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, make sure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients combine more smoothly.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: For a truly indulgent ganache, use high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This will give you a richer and more luxurious flavor.
FAQ Section:
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. The assembled cake can also be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
2. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the filling?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone or even a whipped buttercream filling. This will slightly change the flavor profile but still be delicious.
3. How do I make sure my cake is moist?
This recipe already uses boiling water to ensure a moist cake. However, you can also add a tablespoon of coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This layered chocolate cake with creamy filling and ganache is the perfect combination of rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
By using high-quality ingredients and following the step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a dessert masterpiece that rivals those found in bakeries. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee for the ultimate dessert experience.
Happy baking!