1. Make the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extractuntil smooth.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. The batter will be thick.
- Add boiling water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will thin out, but this is normal. This step ensures a moist cake.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Melt the chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes to melt.
- Stir until smooth: After 5 minutes, add the butter (if using) to the chocolate mixture and stir until smooth and glossy.
- Cool the ganache: Allow the ganache to cool at room temperature until it thickens slightly but is still pourable.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Level the cakes: If the cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them for even stacking.
- Layer the cakes: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache over the top, then place the second layer on top.
- Frost the cake: Pour the remaining ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
- Chill: For best results, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to set the ganache.
4. Serve
- Slice the cake and serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for added flavor.
Tips for Success
- Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache to enhance the flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Enjoy the Richness!
This Super Moist Chocolate Cake is sure to become a favorite. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because you crave something sweet, this cake delivers indulgence in every bite. The luscious chocolate ganache adds a perfect finishing touch, making it a true showstopper. Enjoy!