Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake

This decadent chocolate layer cake is moist, rich, and easy to make, perfect for any celebration or as a comforting indulgence.

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword Baking Recipe, Chocolate Dessert, Chocolate Layer Cake, Decadent Cake, Homemade Cake

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Servings 8 servings

Calories 380kcal

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour Stick with unbleached for the best texture.
1.5 cups sugar Regular granulated is perfect.
3/4 cup cocoa powder Use a high-quality unsweetened cocoa.
1.5 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent for a fluffy cake.
1.5 teaspoons baking soda Leavening agent for a fluffy cake.
1 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and deepens chocolate flavor.

Wet Ingredients

2 eggs room temperature eggs Helps the batter come together smoothly.
1 cup milk Whole milk adds extra richness.
1/2 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake super moist.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds warm, comforting undertones.
1 cup boiling water Blooms the cocoa for deep flavor.

Frosting and Toppings

1 cup chocolate frosting Store-bought or homemade.
1 cup whipped cream Adds cloudlike texture.
1/2 cup chocolate chips Semi-sweet or dark for melty bursts.
1/2 cup chocolate candies For a pop of color and fun.
1/4 cup chocolate ganache Glossy glaze drips over the top.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans generously and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
In a big bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until you have a gloriously lumpy batter.
Pour in the boiling water and stir gently to combine.

Baking

Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them onto a rack to cool completely.

Assembly

Place one cake round on your stand or plate, spread with chocolate frosting, then a layer of whipped cream. Stack the second cake on top and repeat.
Pour ganache over the center, allowing it to drip down.
Decorate with chocolate chips and candies.

Chill

Chill the cake in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for an even mix. Don't skimp on cocoa quality for best flavor. Chill the cake after assembly for easier slicing. Variations include using dark chocolate buttercream or gluten-free flour for different preferences.