Decadent Chocolate Cake

Indulge in this rich and moist chocolate cake that balances traditional flavors with a hint of creativity. The use of dark chocolate adds depth, while a touch of espresso enhances the chocolate flavor, making this cake a delightful treat for any chocolate lover. Perfect for birthdays or special occasions, this dessert is sure to impress while remaining sweet and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water and espresso powder until fully incorporated. The batter will be thin.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For the whipped cream frosting, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form.
10. Once the cakes are cool, spread a layer of whipped cream on top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream.