Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla. Beat until creamy and well combined. Set aside.
Make the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Slowly stir in the hot coffee until the batter is thin but uniform.
Assemble: Pour a thin layer of the chocolate batter into each pan (about 1/3 of the total). Divide the cream cheese filling evenly between the pans, spooning it gently into the center. Do not spread it to the edges. Pour the remaining chocolate batter on top, covering the filling.
Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge (not in the center) comes out clean. The cream cheese center will remain soft. Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the pans.
Ganache (Optional): Heat the cream just to a simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Stir in butter for extra shine. Pour over the cooled cake and let set for 15–30 minutes before serving.
how to serve Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Serve slices of Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling on dessert plates. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for extra flair. This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or milk.