Decadent Layered Chocolate Cake with Creamy Filling and Ganache

If you’re a chocolate lover, this decadent layered chocolate cake with a creamy filling and smooth ganache is the perfect indulgence. Rich, moist, and absolutely irresistible, this cake is ideal for any celebration or just when you’re craving something sweet and special. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this stunning dessert in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

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

For the Creamy Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ cup sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For Decoration:

• White chocolate shavings
• Chocolate curls or sprinkles

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the sugar and whisk until combined.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

4. Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour in the boiling water, mixing slowly until the batter is smooth and slightly thin. This step helps create a moist and fluffy cake.

5. Bake the Cake: 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 transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

1. Heat the Cream: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, cornstarch, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

2. Add Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks, then gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot cream mixture to the yolks while whisking constantly. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, continuing to whisk over medium heat until thickened.

3. Finish the Filling: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated. Let the filling cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.

2. Melt the Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.

3. Add Butter: Stir in the butter until fully melted and the ganache is creamy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the creamy filling over the top. Place the second cake layer on top.

2. Frost with Ganache: Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, using a spatula to spread it evenly over the sides. Smooth the ganache for a glossy finish.

3. Decorate: Garnish with white chocolate shavings, chocolate curls, or sprinkles for a beautiful presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Cake

• Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your chocolate, cocoa powder, and butter makes a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Properly Measure Flour: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing too much flour, which can make the cake dry.

Why This Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion

This layered chocolate cake is a versatile dessert, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or even casual get-togethers. Its rich, chocolatey flavor combined with the creamy filling and ganache will leave your guests asking for seconds. The addition of white chocolate shavings and chocolate curls gives it an elegant touch, making it a showstopper at any event.

Conclusion

This decadent layered chocolate cake with creamy filling and ganache is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy baking this chocolatey delight!