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If you love chocolate and baking, you know the importance of having the perfect recipe for a moist, decadent chocolate cake. Over the years, I’ve tried countless recipes, often feeling less than satisfied. Baking can be tricky, requiring patience and an understanding of how various elements affect texture and flavor. There were times my cakes were dry or unevenly baked, but I’ve learned that practice makes perfect. This recipe yields a three-layer cake with a luscious cream cheese filling and a rich buttercream frosting, and I’ve simplified it for you.
This cake is definitely one to bake for special occasions. The batter will be wetter than typical cake batters, but don’t worry—that’s the secret to its incredible moistness. Oven times may vary, so check periodically and note the timing for future reference. It tastes best when chilled overnight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is a chocolate lover’s dream, combining moist layers with creamy, rich fillings. It’s perfect for celebrations or when you simply want to indulge. Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 3 round cake pans
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Wire rack
- Cake leveler or serrated knife
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 ¾ cups flour
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Whipped Cream Cheese Buttercream:
- 1 cup cream cheese
- ¾ cup butter
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Cream Cheese Buttercream:
- ¾ cup butter
- ¾ cup cream cheese
- 1 ¾ cups Hershey’s cocoa powder
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup + 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Hershey’s Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray 3 round cake pans with cooking spray and dust them lightly with flour. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the boiling water last, mixing again. The batter will be very thin.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each layer comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool for 10-15 minutes before removing them from the pans, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whipped Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting:
- Whip the cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer on high speed for about 30 seconds.
- Add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, ensuring each portion is fully incorporated before adding more.
- Add the vanilla extract and whip for about 30 more seconds on high speed until fluffy.
Chocolate Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer.
- Add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the cocoa, milk, and vanilla, whipping until well combined.
- Beat at high speed for about one minute or until fluffy.
Assembling the Cake:
- Level the cakes with a cake leveler or serrated knife for even stacking.
- Place the bottom layer on a cake plate and spread ¾ cup of cream cheese buttercream filling over it.
- Top with the second layer and repeat the process.
- Place the third layer on top.
- Frost the top with the remaining whipped cream cheese buttercream and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
- Remove from the refrigerator and frost the top and sides with the chocolate cream cheese buttercream.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips for Success
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Chill the cake for at least a few hours before serving for the best flavor.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a twist, add a layer of fruit jam between the cake layers or sprinkle chocolate chips on top for extra indulgence.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This cake is rich and indulgent, so enjoy it in moderation. Each serving provides a delightful combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, perfect for a special treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them for up to a month. Assemble and frost the cake a day before serving.
Can I use different frosting? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite frosting or experiment with different flavors.
Conclusion
This Hershey’s Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling and Chocolate Cream Cheese Buttercream is a showstopper. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Try it out and share your baking experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!
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