Name: Midnight Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (finely chopped); 1/3 cup boiling water; 2 cups cake flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 14 tablespoons salted butter (softened); 2 tablespoons shortening; 1 2/3 cups superfine sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 7 cups confectioners' sugar (sifted); 1/8 teaspoon salt; 6 ounces unsweetened chocolate (melted and cooled to tepid); 12 tablespoons salted butter (melted and cooled to tepid); 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk (plus 1 tablespoon)

Indulging in a slice of Midnight Chocolate Cake is like wrapping yourself in a warm, velvety embrace of rich chocolate goodness. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that lingers on your palate, invoking the sweet nostalgia of childhood celebrations and cozy family gatherings. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or just a night in craving something sweet, this cake is your perfect companion. Its deep cocoa flavor and decadent frosting create a memorable treat that is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Midnight Chocolate Cake deserves a prime spot in your recipe collection for several reasons. Firstly, its intense chocolate flavor is achieved through a thoughtful combination of unsweetened chocolate and cake flour, providing a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Secondly, the frosting is a delightfully rich ganache that complements the cake perfectly, making it a standout dessert at any event. Lastly, it’s surprisingly straightforward to make, with a few simple steps that yield an extraordinary result. This cake is not just for special occasions; it’s for every moment you want to celebrate life with chocolate.

What Goes In

To create the luxurious Midnight Chocolate Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, finely chopped
1/3 cup plus 3 tablespoons boiling water
2 cups cake flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
14 tablespoons salted butter, softened
2 tablespoons shortening
1 2/3 cups plus 2 tablespoons superfine sugar
4 large eggs
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup buttermilk
7 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1/8 teaspoon salt
6 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled to tepid
12 tablespoons salted butter, melted and cooled to tepid
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon milk

Equipment at a Glance

To ensure your baking process goes smoothly, gather the following equipment:

Two 9-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack for cooling
Sifter for the confectioners’ sugar

Cooking Midnight Chocolate Cake: The Process

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this decadent Midnight Chocolate Cake.

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

Begin by placing the finely chopped unsweetened chocolate into a heatproof bowl. Pour the boiling water over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure that your cake has a uniform texture and rises beautifully.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened salted butter, shortening, and superfine sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a tender cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Step 5: Incorporate the Buttermilk and Chocolate

Reduce the mixer speed and add the buttermilk and the cooled chocolate mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be sure not to overmix to maintain the cake’s light texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Ganache Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted confectioners’ sugar and salt. Add the melted and cooled unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled salted butter, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and milk. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.

Step 9: Frost the Cakes

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache frosting over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, creating a beautiful finish.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the Midnight Chocolate Cake into generous portions and serve. Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for the ultimate treat!

Make It Your Way

This Midnight Chocolate Cake is versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste:

Add a layer of raspberry or cherry jam between the cake layers for a fruity burst.
Incorporate espresso powder into the batter for a mocha flavor.
Top with fresh berries or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
Experiment with different extracts, like almond or orange, to add a unique flavor twist.

Cook’s Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Do not skip the sifting of confectioners’ sugar for a smooth frosting.
For an extra moist cake, brush the cake layers with simple syrup before frosting.
This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Shelf Life & Storage

Midnight Chocolate Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, where it will last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and frost!

Your Top Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

While cake flour is preferred for its lower protein content, you can substitute all-purpose flour. For every cup of cake flour, use 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for a similar effect.

How can I make my frosting thicker?

If your ganache frosting is too thin, gradually add more sifted confectioners’ sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can chill the frosting in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to thicken it up.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best structure.

What can I do with leftover frosting?

Leftover frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be used to frost cupcakes, cookies, or even as a filling for pastries!

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Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Midnight Chocolate Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! This cake promises to bring joy not only to your taste buds but also to your heart. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, every slice is a reason to celebrate. Share your creations on social media, and don’t forget to tag us so we can revel in your chocolatey triumphs! Happy baking!