Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress, look no further than this decadent Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling. With layers of rich chocolate cake and a luscious cream filling, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence after dinner. Each bite is a heavenly experience, combining the deep flavors of chocolate with creamy sweetness that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this scrumptious treat!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling has everything you could want in a dessert. Here are a few highlights:
– Rich Chocolate Flavor: The cake is made with unsweetened cocoa powder and boiling water, creating a deep, intense chocolate flavor.
– Light and Creamy Filling: The cream filling is incredibly light, providing a perfect contrast to the dense chocolate cake.
– Easy to Make: With clear steps and easily accessible ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
– Impressive Presentation: Once frosted and sliced, this cake is a showstopper, making it perfect for special occasions.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this delightful Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups boiling water – This helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – The star of the cake, providing rich chocolate flavor.
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – This gives the cake structure.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda – This helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – A little extra lift for the cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
• 2 1/2 cups sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 4 eggs – Provides structure and moisture.
• 1 cup very cold heavy cream – Essential for the creamy filling.
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens the cream filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the filling.
• 1/2 cup butter, softened – For the frosting, creating a rich texture.
• 3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder – Adds chocolate flavor to the frosting.
• 1/3 cup heavy cream – Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls: For mixing your ingredients.
• Whisk and spatula: For combining and folding ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• 9-inch round cake pans: For baking the cake layers.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cake layers properly.
• Electric mixer: To make mixing easier and quicker.
• Offset spatula: For frosting the cake evenly.

Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling in Steps

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lightly flouring them to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix the boiling water and cocoa powder. Stir until the cocoa is completely dissolved. This step is crucial for achieving a rich chocolate flavor.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air for a lighter cake.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the chocolate mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

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.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, whip the very cold heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will create a light and fluffy cream filling.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the whipped cream filling over the top, then place the second cake layer on top.

Step 11: Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together the softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more heavy cream or confectioners’ sugar as needed.

Step 12: Frost the Cake

Using an offset spatula, frost the top and sides of the cake with the chocolate frosting. Smooth it out for a beautiful finish.

Step 13: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, chill the cake for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Slice, serve, and enjoy the heavenly layers of Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling!

In-Season Swaps

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling by trying these in-season swaps:

• Fresh Berries: Top your cake with fresh seasonal berries like strawberries or raspberries for added flavor and color.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch in the cream filling.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the cream filling for a refreshing twist.
• Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the cream filling for an extra chocolatey experience.

Steer Clear of These

When preparing your Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling, be sure to avoid:

• Overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
• Using warm ingredients; ensure butter is softened and cream is cold for the best texture.
• Skipping the cooling time for the cakes, as this can cause the filling to melt.
• Using low-quality cocoa powder, as it can impact the overall flavor of the cake.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling fresh and delicious, consider the following storage tips:

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you need to store it longer, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just wait to add the cream filling and frosting until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy heavy cream substitute, which works well for the filling and frosting.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour is ideal for this recipe, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but be sure to follow the instructions specific to that blend.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with a few moist crumbs. Make sure not to overbake, or the cake may become dry.

In Closing

This Chocolate Cake with Cream Filling is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich chocolate flavor combined with the light, creamy filling creates a cake that’s truly irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to steal the show. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a slice of this chocolatey goodness—your taste buds will thank you!