Description
This Dark Chocolate Raspberry Ruffle Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Imagine layers of moist, dark chocolate cake nestled between tangy raspberry preserves and velvety chocolate ganache, all wrapped up in a striking ruffled design.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee
For the Ganache:
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Filling:
- 1 cup raspberry preserves
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries (optional)
For Decoration:
- Fresh raspberries
- Edible gold flakes or powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.
- Slowly pour in the hot coffee, mixing until smooth.
- Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make the Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming (not boiling).
- Pour over the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the butter for added shine. Let cool until thickened but still spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Spread a thin layer of raspberry preserves over the top of the first cake layer. Add a layer of ganache, spreading evenly.
- Place the second layer on top and repeat. Cover the entire cake with ganache, smoothing it out for an even base.
- Create the Ruffles:
- Transfer the remaining ganache into a piping bag fitted with a petal tip. Pipe ruffles around the sides of the cake, working from bottom to top.
- Decorate:
- Top the cake with fresh raspberries and edible gold flakes or a dusting of powdered sugar for a dramatic finish.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Slice and enjoy!