Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Make the Chocolate Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, coffee granules, and baking soda mixture.
Add brewed coffee, butter, oil, eggs, vanilla, and hot water. Mix until smooth—don’t overmix.
Divide batter evenly between pans.
Bake 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in pans 10 min, then turn out onto wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2 – Prepare the Cream Filling
Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add vanilla, powdered sugar, and heavy cream; whip until light and fluffy.
Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3 – Make the Ganache
Heat heavy cream until simmering.
Pour over chopped chocolate, let sit 2 min.
Stir until smooth; add buttercream if using. Cool slightly.
Step 4 – Optional Drizzle
Whisk melted white chocolate with butter, sugar, vanilla, and cream until smooth and pourable.
Step 5 – Assemble
Place first cake layer on serving plate. Spread cream filling evenly.
Top with second cake layer.
Pour ganache over top, letting it drip down sides.
Add white chocolate drizzle if desired.
Chill 15–20 min before slicing.
What to Serve With This Cake
Fresh berries or berry coulis
Espresso or cappuccino
A glass of dessert wine or port
Tips for the Best Results
Room temperature ingredients help batter and filling blend smoothly.
Don’t skip the coffee—it deepens the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee.
Cool completely before filling to prevent melting the cream.
For clean slices, run your knife under hot water, wipe, then cut.
Storage
Store covered in the fridge up to 4 days.
Bring to room temp before serving for best texture.
Freeze unfilled cake layers for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this without coffee?
A: Yes—replace with hot water or milk, though the flavor depth will be slightly less intense.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
A: Yes, but reduce added sugar elsewhere to avoid over-sweetness.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Absolutely—assemble up to 1 day ahead; flavors will meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Layered Chocolate Cake with Creamy Filling & Ganache Topping is the dessert equivalent of a standing ovation. Rich, indulgent, and elegant—it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just those “I need chocolate now” days.
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