This rich, soft, and fudgy chocolate cake is covered with a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache and topped with chocolate shavings. It is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or whenever you crave a delicious homemade chocolate dessert.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the chocolate cake
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1¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
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¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
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1¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
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½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
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1 cup (240 ml) hot water or hot coffee
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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1½ teaspoons baking soda
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon salt
For the chocolate ganache
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250 g (9 oz) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped
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1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
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1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra shine)
For the topping
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¼ cup chocolate shavings or chocolate curls
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2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly combined.
Step 3: Add the wet ingredients
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth.
Step 4: Add hot water or coffee
Slowly stir in the hot water or coffee. The batter will be thin; this is normal and helps create a moist, tender cake. Avoid splashing the hot liquid.
Step 5: Bake the cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Step 6: Make the chocolate ganache
Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream until steaming but not boiling, then pour it over the chocolate. Let stand for 3–5 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. Mix in the butter, if desired, and let the ganache cool until spreadable.
Step 7: Assemble the cake
Cool the cakes in their pans for 10–15 minutes, then turn them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread ganache over it, and position the second layer on top.
Step 8: Frost and decorate
Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake using a spatula. Sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the top. Allow the ganache to set before slicing.
Step 9: Slice and serve
Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, to create neat slices. Serve at room temperature for the softest cake texture and smoothest ganache.
Tips for the perfect chocolate cake
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For extra moisture: Use hot coffee instead of water to deepen the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste strongly of coffee.
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For smooth ganache: Chop the chocolate finely and avoid introducing too much air while stirring.
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For a glossy finish: Add a small amount of butter to the ganache.
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For clean slices: Let the ganache set slightly and warm your knife in hot water, wiping it dry between cuts.
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Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Bring slices to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Can I make this cake without coffee?
Yes. Use hot water instead. The cake will still have a rich chocolate flavor.
Q2: Why is my chocolate cake dry?
Overbaking or measuring too much flour can make it dry. Check the cake a few minutes before the minimum baking time and measure flour accurately.
Q3: Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate it in an airtight container. Warm it gently and stir until smooth before using, adding a little cream if needed.
Q4: Can I make this recipe in one pan?
You can bake it in a deep 9-inch pan, but the baking time will be longer and the center may take longer to cook. Avoid filling the pan more than two-thirds full; bake extra batter separately if necessary.
Q5: How can I make the cake look like the picture?
Use two cake layers with ganache between them, cover the cake with a smooth layer of glossy ganache, and decorate the top with chocolate shavings or small chocolate pieces.
Enjoy this decadent, bakery-style chocolate ganache cake! 🍫🎂