Dive into the richness of this Triple-Layer Chocolate Cake, a dessert that promises to deliver deep, chocolatey flavors with every bite. Each layer of moist chocolate cake is paired with a light and fluffy whipped chocolate ganache, creating a delightful contrast. The entire cake is enveloped in a velvety sour cream chocolate frosting that adds a creamy, tangy finish, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Why You'll Love This: This cake is a chocolate lover's paradise, combining various textures and forms of chocolate to satisfy your cravings. The whipped ganache filling adds a mousse-like quality that makes each layer light and airy, while the sour cream in the frosting introduces a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. It's a sophisticated cake that's perfect for any occasion requiring a touch of elegance.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is ideal for significant celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or any festive gathering. It's also perfect for holiday dinners or as a show-stopping centerpiece at a formal event.
Decoration Tips: For an exquisite presentation, consider garnishing the cake with chocolate curls, a dusting of cocoa powder, or fresh berries. Edible gold leaf or chocolate shards can also add a luxurious touch, making it visually stunning and more tempting.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
- ¾ cup Dutch processed cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup very hot water
For the Whipped Chocolate Ganache Filling:
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
For the Chocolate Sour Cream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1 cup Dutch processed cocoa powder
- ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
- 6 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch baking pans.
- In a stand mixer, combine flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate jug, whisk buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add to dry ingredients on low speed. Slowly add hot water, mixing until smooth.
- Divide the batter among the pans and bake for 22-25 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then fully on a rack.
- Prepare the Ganache Filling:
- Heat cream to a simmer, then pour over chocolate. Let sit, then whisk smooth. Cool completely.
- Whip cooled ganache until fluffy.
- Make the Frosting:
- Melt the chocolate, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly.
- Beat butter and sugar until light. Add cocoa powder, then sour cream, melted chocolate, and salt, beating until fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a plate, spread half the ganache, top with the second layer, and repeat. Top with the third layer.
- Frost the top and sides with the sour cream chocolate frosting.
Enjoy this decadent Triple-Layer Chocolate Cake, a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures that will make any occasion feel extra special!