Rich Double Layer Chocolate Cake with Ganache

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake (2 layers):

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240 ml) boiling hot water or hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Cream Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
  • 400 g (14 oz) semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter (for silkiness)

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 250 g (9 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tbsp corn syrup or honey (optional, for shine)

Decoration (optional):

  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Red berries or cherries
  • Chocolate shavings

Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Chocolate Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) square pans or one large sheet pan.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the hot water (or coffee). Batter will be thin – that’s perfect.
  5. Pour into prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool completely before layering.

Step 2 – Prepare the Chocolate Cream Filling

  1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering.
  2. Remove from heat, pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes.
  3. Stir until smooth, then mix in butter.
  4. Refrigerate until slightly thickened, then whip lightly to spreadable consistency.

Step 3 – Assemble the Cake

  1. Slice cakes if needed to even out.
  2. Place one cake layer on a serving tray. Spread the chocolate cream filling generously.
  3. Place the second cake layer on top. Chill for 20 minutes.

Step 4 – Make the Ganache Topping

  1. Heat cream until simmering, pour over chopped chocolate.
  2. Let sit, then stir until smooth and glossy.
  3. Add honey/corn syrup if using.
  4. Pour over the cake, spreading evenly for a shiny glaze.

Step 5 – Decorate

  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves, berries, or chocolate curls.
  • Chill for 30 minutes before slicing to get neat, glossy pieces.

Benefits of This Cake

  • Rich & Moist: The hot water/coffee keeps it tender.
  • Decadent Filling: Creamy chocolate ganache inside makes every bite indulgent.
  • Showstopper Dessert: Perfect for parties, birthdays, or celebrations.
  • Customizable: You can add nuts, fruit layers, or even a splash of liqueur to the filling.

Conclusion

This double-layer chocolate cake is a true celebration of chocolate – moist sponge, creamy filling, and glossy ganache on top. It’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone ask for seconds and looks just as impressive as it tastes.

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