Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
Slowly stir in the hot coffee (or hot water) until the batter becomes thin but uniform in texture.
3️⃣ Assemble the Cake:
Pour about 1/3 of the chocolate batter into each pan, forming a thin layer.
Divide the cream cheese filling evenly between the pans, spooning it gently into the center of the batter. Be careful not to spread it to the edges.
Pour the remaining chocolate batter on top, covering the cream cheese filling completely.
4️⃣ Bake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edge of the cake (not the center) comes out clean. The center with the cream cheese filling will remain soft.
Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the pans.
5️⃣ Ganache (Optional):
In a small saucepan, heat the cream just to a simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Stir in the butter for extra shine.
Pour the ganache over the cooled cakes, allowing it to set for 15–30 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips:
- Chill the cake slightly for cleaner, more precise slices.
- For a beautiful contrast, serve with fresh raspberries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
Pro Tips for Chocolate Cake Success:
- Hot coffee is key: It deepens the chocolate flavor and helps create a moist, tender cake. If you prefer, you can substitute with hot water.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the batter ingredients, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the ganache—this will prevent it from melting too quickly.
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
- Rich & Moist: A melt-in-your-mouth chocolate cake with a creamy filling that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Layered Indulgence: The cream cheese filling adds a deliciously tangy contrast to the deep chocolate flavor.
- Ganache Finish: The glossy chocolate ganache brings everything together in a showstopping way.
Nutritional Info (per slice, approx. based on 12 servings):
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbs: ~50g
- Fat: ~22g
- Fiber: ~2g
FAQ About This Chocolate Cake:
- Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble the cake and add the ganache just before serving. - Can I use a different filling?
Absolutely! Swap the cream cheese filling with a peanut butter filling, caramel, or even a simple whipped cream if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. - Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this cake gluten-free.
Troubleshooting & Tips:
- Too thick batter? Add a little more hot coffee or water to thin it out if it seems too thick.
- Ganache too runny? Let it cool a bit more before pouring it over the cake, or add a touch more chocolate to thicken it.
- Cake cracked? Make sure to insert the toothpick near the edge of the cake, not the center, for a more accurate test.
Flavor Twists to Try:
- Espresso Infusion: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder to the batter for a more intense coffee-chocolate flavor.
- Peanut Butter Layer: Add a peanut butter filling along with the cream cheese for a decadent combination.
- Mint Chocolate: Add 1 tsp of mint extract to the ganache for a minty twist.
Perfect For:
- Birthdays and celebrations
- Dinner parties
- Special family gatherings
- A decadent treat any time you need to indulge!
The Ultimate Chocolate Cake Experience:
With its rich chocolate layers, creamy filling, and glossy ganache, this cake is the epitome of indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating or just treating yourself, this dessert will be a hit at any occasion.
Made it? Share your decadent creations with us! We’d love to see your beautiful cakes!
