Chocolate Layer Cake - 1 Year of Recipes

Layered chocolate cake - A sweet celebration for loved ones

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Celebrating a year of recipes, today I present a recipe for a Layered Chocolate Cake, perfect for birthdays or special moments. This cake not only looks spectacular, but it is also incredibly delicious, combining fluffy chocolate layers with a smooth mascarpone cream and a decadent glaze. It is the ideal choice to celebrate an important moment, just as I did for my son's birthday.

Ingredients:

*For the cake layers:*
- 250 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 6 large eggs
- 100 g butter
- 150 g sugar
- 40 g cornstarch
- 40 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder

*For the vanilla mascarpone cream:*
- 250 g mascarpone
- 100 g heavy cream (minimum 30% fat)
- 80 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 egg whites

*For the ganache glaze:*
- 200 g dark chocolate
- 25 ml liquid cream
- 50 g honey (or 30 g, to taste)

*For decoration:*
- Colored candies (e.g., Smarties, Kit Kat)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cake layers:
Start by preparing the cake layers. Melt the dark chocolate in a bain-marie, adding two tablespoons of water to facilitate melting. Make sure the chocolate does not overheat to preserve its flavor. Once melted, add the butter cut into cubes and mix well until melted and incorporated.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until they become a light cream. Add the chocolate and butter mixture, mixing gently. Then, gradually add the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder, mixing with a spatula to keep the air in the mixture.

3. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture using up-and-down motions to avoid losing volume.

4. Prepare the silicone molds by greasing them with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the molds and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick if the layers are baked: if it comes out clean, they are ready!

2. Preparing the mascarpone cream:
In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until firm. Add the mascarpone and mix gently until homogeneous. In another bowl, whip the egg whites until foamy, then carefully fold them into the mascarpone cream.

3. Preparing the ganache glaze:
Melt the chocolate broken into small pieces in a bain-marie. In a small saucepan, bring the cream and honey to a boil, then pour the mixture over the melted chocolate. Stir constantly until you achieve a smooth and glossy glaze. Let it cool slightly.

4. Assembling the cake:
Once the layers have cooled, cut each layer into two discs. Place the first disc on a platter, evenly distribute the mascarpone cream, then place the second disc. Repeat the process with each layer, covering each disc with cream. If you want to add a surprise touch, you can insert colored candies between layers! Continue with the last disc.

5. Decorating the cake:
Cover the cake with the remaining mascarpone cream, smoothing the surface well. Place the cake on a rack, putting a tray underneath to catch any excess glaze. Pour the ganache glaze over the cake, ensuring an even coverage. Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours before serving, so the flavors meld perfectly.

Helpful tips:
- Use high-quality chocolate for an intense flavor.
- Make sure the layers are completely cooled before cutting them to avoid cracking.
- If you want a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in the mascarpone cream.

Delicious pairings:
This layered chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a fragrant coffee or black tea. You can also serve it with a berry sauce to add a contrast of flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use white chocolate? Sure! You can replace dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter version.
- How can I store the cake? This cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
- Can I make the cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be prepared a day in advance and will be even tastier as the flavors develop.

This Layered Chocolate Cake will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones and turn any occasion into a memorable celebration. Enjoy!