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Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Layer Cake


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  • Author: Douaa
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Celebrate in style with this Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Layer Cake – a stunning and indulgent dessert made with moist chocolate cake layers, smooth vanilla or cream cheese frosting, a rich chocolate ganache drip, and fresh raspberries for a burst of tartness. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion.


Ingredients

Chocolate Cake Layers:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

  • 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 2 tsp baking soda

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk + lemon juice/vinegar)

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 cup (240ml) hot strong coffee or hot water

Vanilla/Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened (optional)

  • 4-5 cups (480-600g) powdered sugar, sifted

  • 2-4 tbsp heavy cream or milk

  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

Chocolate Ganache Drip:

  • 1/2 cup (85g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream

Decoration:

  • 1 1/2-2 cups fresh raspberries

  • Optional: Mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves


Instructions

  • Prepare Cake Layers:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), prepare pans with parchment and grease.

    • Mix all dry ingredients. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla, then hot coffee.

    • Divide batter into pans and bake 30–35 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.

  • Make Frosting:

    • Cream butter (and cream cheese if using). Gradually beat in powdered sugar.

    • Add cream, vanilla, and salt; whip until fluffy. Adjust consistency as needed.

  • Assemble the Cake:

    • Level cakes, then layer with frosting between.

    • Apply a crumb coat, chill, then frost fully.

  • Ganache Drip:

    • Heat cream, pour over chocolate. Wait 5 mins, then stir until smooth.

    • Cool slightly, then drip over the top edges of the frosted cake.

  • Decorate:

    • Pipe frosting swirls if desired.

    • Add fresh raspberries on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings, mint leaves, or a dusting of cocoa or powdered sugar.

  • Chill & Serve:

    • Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

    • Use a clean, sharp knife for clean cuts.

Notes

  • Use good quality cocoa and chocolate for best flavor.

  • Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate taste without overpowering.

  • Cake can be made a day ahead and chilled overnight for easy slicing.

  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American