Moist Chocolate Layer Cake with Ganache Frosting

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

3. Add sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla to the dry mix. Lightly whisk until partially combined.
4. Pour in buttermilk, then slowly stir in hot water or coffee. Mix until smooth. Batter will be thin.

Step 4: Bake

5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Ganache

8. Heat heavy cream until steaming (do not boil). Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl.
9. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Add butter if desired for added shine.
10. Cool slightly until spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

11. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread ganache over the top.
12. Top with second cake layer. Frost top and sides with remaining ganache.

Step 7: Garnish