Name: Decadent Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Layer Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 cake (10-12 servings)
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction

Welcome to the world of decadence and delight with our irresistible Decadent Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Layer Cake. This indulgent dessert is a true showstopper, perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. With layers of rich chocolate cake and luscious dulce de leche filling, this cake is a dream come true for all the chocolate lovers out there.

Ingredients

For the cake:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

– 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 2 large eggs

– 1 cup whole milk

– ½ cup vegetable oil

– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

– 1 cup boiling water

For the dulce de leche filling:

– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

– ½ cup heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Decadent Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.

4. Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.

5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

7. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dulce de Leche Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns a rich caramel color. This should take about 20-25 minutes.

3. Remove the dulce de leche filling from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

4. Once cooled, spread a generous amount of dulce de leche filling between each layer of cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.

2. Place the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.

3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute to melt.

4. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.

5. Stir in the vanilla extract.

6. Let the ganache cool for about 15 minutes, then pour it over the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

7. Use a spatula to smooth the ganache on the top and sides of the cake.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few variations you can try:

– Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers for a burst of fruity flavor.

– Incorporate chopped nuts, such as toasted almonds or hazelnuts, into the dulce de leche filling for added crunch.

– For a hint of coffee flavor, dissolve 2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules in the boiling water before adding it to the cake batter.

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Decadent Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Layer Cake turns out perfectly:

– Use good quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the best flavor.

– Make sure your cake pans are well-greased and floured to prevent sticking.

– Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling and frosting to avoid a melted mess.

– If you don’t have dulce de leche, you can make your own by simmering a can of sweetened condensed milk in a pot of water for a few hours until it caramelizes.

Conclusion

Indulge your taste buds and impress your guests with our Decadent Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Layer Cake. This heavenly dessert combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of dulce de leche, creating a flavor combination that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings for something truly decadent.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Assemble and frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers before assembling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw the layers in the refrigerator before assembling and frosting the cake.

How long will the cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, the cake will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.

Can I use a different type of filling?

Definitely! While dulce de leche adds a delicious caramel flavor, you can use other fillings such as chocolate mousse, cream cheese frosting, or even fruit preserves.

Decadent Chocolate and Dulce de Leche Layer Cake

Introduction

Ingredients