There's something magical about a rich, creamy chocolate cake.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, a homemade chocolate cake can hit the spot!
In just five simple steps, you'll have a cake so good, your guests will think you've spent hours in the kitchen. Let's dive right in!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
A good cake starts with quality ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
For the cake batter:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the cream filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the ganache topping:
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans. In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another, beat the sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until the batter is lump-free. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 3: Whip the Cream Filling
While the cake cools, it's time to make the cream filling. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip; the cream should be light and fluffy, not grainy. Store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Ganache is what makes this cake extra decadent. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just starts to bubble—don't let it boil! Remove from heat and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the cake.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
Once the cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread the whipped cream filling generously over the top, then sandwich it with the second cake layer. Slowly pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Enjoy Your Masterpiece!
There you have it—a decadent cream chocolate cake in just five steps. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or savoring it alone with a cup of coffee, this cake promises to bring joy with every bite.
