Outback Chocolate Tower Cake (Copycat Recipe)

Indulge in layers of rich chocolate cake, decadent chocolate ganache, and fluffy whipped cream, inspired by the beloved dessert from Outback Steakhouse. This cake is a chocolate lover's dream, balancing traditional elements with a creative flair for a stunning presentation. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home, it meets dietary preferences with its straightforward, classic ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• Chocolate shavings, for garnish

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 the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin). Pour evenly into the prepared pans.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to cool completely on wire racks.
6. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
7. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache on top.
8. Add the second cake layer on top of the first and spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
9. In a separate bowl, whip the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Pipe or spread the whipped cream on top of the cake.
10. Garnish with chocolate shavings and serve.