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 cake releases easily after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until mixed thoroughly.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
Add Coffee: Lastly, stir in the hot coffee. The batter will be thin, but this is what creates that deliciously moist cake.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cool: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese filling between the two cake layers. Frost the top and sides of the cake with any remaining filling.
Chill & Serve: Chill the cake for a bit to let the flavors meld. Once you're ready to serve, slice it up and watch the smiles appear!
What to Serve Hershey's Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Looking for some delightful pairings to complement your cake? Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the rich chocolate flavor. Fresh strawberries or mixed berries add a pop of color and a refreshing taste that balances the richness beautifully. Additionally, a cup of freshly brewed coffee makes for a delightful pairing that will further highlight the chocolate notes in the cake.
Top Tips for Perfecting Hershey's Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
Don't Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Adjust for Altitude: If you live at a higher altitude, you may need to adjust baking times and ingredient ratios for the best results.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Hershey's Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. The cake will last in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. If you prefer to freeze it, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually, ensuring they’re well sealed to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slice at room temperature or gently heat in the microwave for a few seconds.
This moist and scrumptious Hershey's Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is ideal for any occasion! Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and start creating a delicious memory today!