Indulge in this decadent Chocolate Birthday Cake. Picture layers of fluffy, moist chocolate cake, drenched in Chocolate Syrup for an extra chocolatey punch, and smothered with a velvety Chocolate Buttercream frosting.
The secret to its divine texture lies in a combination of sour cream, buttermilk, and oil in the batter. While the Chocolate Syrup is optional, it not only adds moisture but also intensifies the chocolate flavor.
Crafting the perfect frosting is an art, and this Chocolate Buttercream is a masterpiece. With the addition of a dark chocolate ganache, it becomes silky, rich, and perfectly balances the sweetness.
Here are some helpful tips for baking this delightful cake:
- Ensure all ingredients like eggs, butter, sour cream, and buttermilk are at room temperature.
- Avoid over mixing the batter to prevent a dry outcome.
- Scrape the bowl to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Bake until just done to retain moisture.
- If not frosting immediately, freeze the layers wrapped in plastic to maintain freshness.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
Method
For the Chocolate Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder (if using).
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then add hot coffee and mix until smooth.
- Divide batter into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Let cakes cool before frosting.
For the Chocolate Syrup:
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and cocoa powder. Add water and whisk over medium heat until boiling. Let cool.
For the Chocolate Buttercream:
- Melt chocolate chips and heat cream. Combine and let cool.
- Beat butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
- Add cooled ganache and vanilla, beat until combined.
To assemble the cake:
- Place one cake layer on a plate, brush with syrup, then spread buttercream. Repeat with remaining layers.
- Frost top and sides of cake. Decorate with sprinkles.