National Cake Week marks a delightful time for cake enthusiasts worldwide. From light and airy creations to rich and indulgent confections, cakes are a symbol of celebration and joy. This Cake Week let’s delve into the timeless charm of baking with a classic chocolate layer cake recipe that will elevate any occasion. Join us on this delectable journey, where we combine the art of baking with the spirit of celebration.

Chocolate Cake Recipe: Ingredients and Steps

Creating the perfect Chocolate Layer Cake involves a symphony of flavours and precise steps. Here’s your guide to crafting this masterpiece:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined, about 2 minutes.
4. Reduce the speed to low and gradually add the boiling water to the batter. Mix until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cakes comes out clean.
6. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. Add the chopped chocolate and butter to the hot cream. Let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
3. Stir the mixture until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the ganache is smooth and shiny. If needed, you can gently heat the mixture over low heat while stirring to ensure everything is melted.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
2. Spread a generous layer of the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake layer.
3. Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the ganache.
4. Use the remaining chocolate ganache to frost the top and sides of the cake. You can create a smooth finish or leave it slightly rustic.
5. If desired, you can decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or additional chocolate pieces.
6. Allow the ganache to set for a bit before slicing and serving.

During National Cake Week, seize the opportunity to explore the art of cake creation and indulge in the pleasures of sweetness. Chocolate Layer Cake with rich and creamy Chocolate Ganache frosting, showcases the magic of baking. This Cake Week, celebrate the joy of baking!