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Death by Chocolate Cake

Indulge in this rich and decadent Death by Chocolate Cake, perfect for any chocolate lover looking to impress with a moist, multi-layered dessert topped with creamy frosting and ganache.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course cake, Dessert
Cuisine American, Baking
Servings 12 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream

Ganache Topping Ingredients

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cakes come out easily.
  • Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix together until well combined.
  • Add Wet Ingredients: Add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until you have a smooth batter.
  • Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfect for achieving a moist texture! Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans.

Baking

  • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting and Assembly

  • Make the Frosting: While your cakes are cooling, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat until you achieve a fluffy consistency.
  • Assemble Your Cake: Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate frosting on top. Place the second layer over it and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Ganache

  • Make the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a minute. Stir until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is creamy. Drizzle the ganache over the frosted cake.

Serving

  • Serve: Slice and enjoy your Death by Chocolate Cake with your family and friends!

Notes

For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of some of the oil. You can also swap heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Ensure not to overmix your batter and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keyword Baking, Chocolate Cake, Death by Chocolate Cake, Decadent Dessert, Dessert Recipe