Decadent Chocolate & Vanilla Layer Cake

This rich and indulgent chocolate and vanilla layer cake is the perfect dessert for any special occasion. With moist chocolate cake layers, a smooth vanilla cream filling, and silky chocolate ganache, every bite is pure bliss. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

Making the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat & Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
4. Incorporate Boiling Water: Reduce the mixer speed to low and carefully add the boiling water. The batter will be thin—this is normal!
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Making the Vanilla Cream Filling:

1. Cook the Mixture: In a saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and cornstarch. Add milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.
2. Add Butter & Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
3. Cool: Cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface) and let cool to room temperature.

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Making the Chocolate Ganache:

1. Heat Cream: In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer (don’t boil!).
2. Melt Chocolate & Butter: Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Cool: Let the ganache cool to room temperature before assembling the cake.

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Assembling the Cake:

1. Level the Cake Layers: If needed, trim the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife to create even layers.
2. Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of vanilla cream filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently.
3. Pour Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
4. Decorate: Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or extra vanilla cream for a beautiful finish.

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Pro Tips for a Perfect Cake:

✅ Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
✅ Chill the Fillings: Let the vanilla cream and ganache cool properly before assembling to prevent them from being too runny.
✅ Even Layers: Use a cake leveler or serrated knife for perfectly even cake layers.

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Final Thoughts

This decadent chocolate and vanilla layer cake is the ultimate indulgence! With moist chocolate cake, creamy vanilla filling, and luscious ganache, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're baking for a celebration or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite!