Rich, moist, and irresistibly chocolatey, this Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake is a showstopper dessert for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you’re craving something sweet and indulgent. With layers of velvety chocolate cake, fluffy chocolate filling, and glossy ganache on top, this cake will impress any chocolate lover.
Whether you’re a home baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers bakery-quality results!
📝 Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
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1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
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¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 cups granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs
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1 cup whole milk
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½ cup vegetable oil
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Filling:
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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2 tablespoons sugar
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3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
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1 cup heavy cream
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8 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Cake Layers
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
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In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
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Add in the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix on medium speed until fully combined.
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Slowly add the boiling water while mixing — the batter will be thin, and that’s normal!
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and place on wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Filling
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In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extractuntil soft peaks form.
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Keep chilled until ready to use.
3. Make the Chocolate Ganache
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Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not boil).
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Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl.
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Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
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Let the ganache cool for 10–15 minutes until it thickens slightly before pouring.
🎂 Assemble the Cake
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Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
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Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the first layer.
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Place the second cake layer on top.
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Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
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Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings, berries, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
🍽️ Serving & Storage
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Serving: Slice and serve at room temperature.
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Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Bring to room temp before serving.
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Freezing: You can freeze the cake (unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
💡 Tips for Success
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For a deeper flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa powder.
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Don’t overmix the batter after adding boiling water — just enough to combine.
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The ganache can also be whipped for a fluffy frosting if you prefer!
📊 Nutrition (Per Slice – Approximate)
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Calories: 450
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Fat: 28g
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Carbs: 50g
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Protein: 6g
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Sugar: 35g
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Sodium: 240mg
🥄 Final Thoughts
This Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake is everything a chocolate cake should be: moist, rich, creamy, and totally unforgettable. Whether you’re baking it for a birthday, a holiday, or just to treat yourself, this recipe is bound to become your go-to chocolate cake.