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–+ servings
Death by Chocolate Cake

Irresistible Death by Chocolate Cake for Ultimate Indulgence

This Death by Chocolate Cake is a decadent chocolate lover’s dream featuring layers of moist cake and rich buttercream.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup Chocolate Simple Syrup Adds moisture and enhances the chocolate flavor; omit if you're in a hurry.
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cake; use brown sugar for a richer taste.
  • 0.75 cups Dark Cocoa Powder Supplies chocolate intensity; regular unsweetened cocoa can work as a substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Baking Powder Essential leavening agent; ensure fresh for optimal results.
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda Essential leavening agent; ensure fresh for optimal results.
  • 1 tsp Fine Salt Enhances overall flavor; kosher salt can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Contributes to moisture; plain yogurt is a good substitute.
  • 0.5 cups Vegetable/Canola Oil Keeps the cake moist; melted coconut oil is a great alternative.
  • 3 large Eggs Bind and provide structure; flax eggs can replace for a vegan option.
  • 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract Adds depth of flavor; consider using vanilla bean paste for added intensity.
  • 1 tbsp Instant Espresso Optional; intensifies chocolate flavor; feel free to omit if not desired.
For the Buttercream Frosting
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Base of the frosting for a rich texture; dairy-free butter can be used.
  • 3 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens and thickens the buttercream; no direct substitutions for best texture.
  • 0.5 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Adds creaminess; full-fat coconut milk works for a non-dairy version.
  • 8 oz Dark Chocolate Chips Perfect for melting into the frosting; semi-sweet chips are a viable alternative.
  • 0.5 cups Mini Chocolate Chips Optional for decoration; chopped nuts can be used instead.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Cake Pans
  • Serrated knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Death by Chocolate Cake
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine equal parts of water, granulated sugar, and dark cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, remove from heat and cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, dark cocoa powder, and salt.
  3. Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 23-26 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  4. Cool the cake layers in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  5. Level the cake layers and brush with chocolate simple syrup to enhance moisture and flavor.
  6. Beat butter until fluffy, then gradually add cocoa powder and sugar. Mix in heavy cream, melted chocolate, and salt until smooth.
  7. Assemble the cake by layering with buttercream, ensuring layers are well-soaked with syrup. Frost the sides and top with remaining buttercream.
  8. Decorate with mini chocolate chips, pipe extra buttercream if desired, and chill for at least an hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 6gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 40gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Chilling layers before frosting simplifies handling.

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