Truffle Cake

Why This Recipe Works:

Truffle Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream with its rich, dense, and indulgent layers of chocolate cake, filled and covered with smooth, creamy chocolate ganache. The combination of high-quality cocoa and real chocolate in the ganache creates an intense chocolate flavor, perfect for any special occasion.

Ingredients:

Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Chocolate Ganache:

• 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

1. In another large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients:

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth and well combined.
2. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is thin and well mixed.

Bake the Cakes:

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Ganache:

1. Place the chopped chocolate in a large bowl.
2. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Stir in the butter until fully incorporated.
6. Let the ganache cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thickened but still spreadable.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread a thick layer of ganache on top.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache.

Decorate:

• If desired, garnish the cake with chocolate shavings, truffles, or fresh berries.

Notes:

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.