Layered Chocolate Dream Cake
A decadent treat with layers of moist chocolate cake, silky ganache, and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for celebrations.
Ingredients
Cake Layers
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips For ganache
Cream Components
- 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for whipped cream)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for whipped cream)
Garnish
- Chocolate shavings or chopped nuts Optional garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before assembly.
Ganache and Whipped Cream
- In a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
- Gradually stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar together until soft peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Assembly
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache over the top, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat with the second layer and top it with the final cake layer.
- Spread whipped cream on the top layer and garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped nuts for an elegant finish.
Notes
This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.