Recipe

A Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with Custard and Ganache Filling is a showstopper dessert, perfect for celebrations or whenever you’re craving something rich and indulgent. The combination of moist chocolate cake, creamy custard, and silky ganache makes for an irresistible treat. Here’s a recipe to help you create this mouthwatering dessert!

Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with Custard and Ganache Filling

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for deeper flavor)

For the Custard Filling:

2 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

8 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

Directions:

1. Make the Chocolate Cake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar.
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and combined.
Slowly add the boiling water (or hot coffee) to the batter. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Custard Filling:

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot (but not boiling).
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the hot milk, stirring constantly until the custard thickens and begins to boil (about 5 minutes).
Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. If you want a smoother custard, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
Once cooled, cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble the cake.

3. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

In a heatproof bowl, add the chopped chocolate.
In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer over medium heat. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute to melt the chocolate.
Stir until smooth and glossy. If you want a shinier ganache, add the butter and stir until melted and incorporated.
Let the ganache cool to room temperature before using it to frost the cake.

4. Assemble the Cake:

Once the cakes have cooled, carefully slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
Place the first layer of cake on a cake stand or serving platter. Spread a generous amount of custard filling over the layer.
Place the second layer of cake on top, followed by another layer of custard.
Repeat the process with the remaining layers.
Once the cake is assembled, pour the cooled ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.

5. Serve:

Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set slightly.
Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or whipped cream if desired.

Tips:

For extra moist cake: Use buttermilk instead of regular milk in the cake batter.
Storing: The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Customization: Add a layer of fruit preserves or a bit of whipped cream between the custard layers for an extra flavor boost.

This Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake with Custard and Ganache Filling is perfect for any special occasion or when you just want to treat yourself to a rich, indulgent dessert. Enjoy every bite! 🍰