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:
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2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
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2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
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3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 tsp baking soda
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1 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk + lemon juice/vinegar)
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1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup (240ml) hot strong coffee or hot water
Vanilla/Cream Cheese Frosting:
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1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
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8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened (optional)
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4-5 cups (480-600g) powdered sugar, sifted
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2-4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Chocolate Ganache Drip:
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1/2 cup (85g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
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1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
Decoration:
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1 1/2-2 cups fresh raspberries
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Optional: Mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, fresh mint leaves
Instructions
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Prepare Cake Layers:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), prepare pans with parchment and grease.
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Mix all dry ingredients. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla, then hot coffee.
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Divide batter into pans and bake 30–35 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.
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Make Frosting:
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Cream butter (and cream cheese if using). Gradually beat in powdered sugar.
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Add cream, vanilla, and salt; whip until fluffy. Adjust consistency as needed.
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Assemble the Cake:
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Level cakes, then layer with frosting between.
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Apply a crumb coat, chill, then frost fully.
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Ganache Drip:
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Heat cream, pour over chocolate. Wait 5 mins, then stir until smooth.
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Cool slightly, then drip over the top edges of the frosted cake.
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Decorate:
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Pipe frosting swirls if desired.
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Add fresh raspberries on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings, mint leaves, or a dusting of cocoa or powdered sugar.
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Chill & Serve:
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Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
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Use a clean, sharp knife for clean cuts.
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Notes
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Use good quality cocoa and chocolate for best flavor.
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Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate taste without overpowering.
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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