Are you looking for a decadent dessert to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delightful indulgence? Look no further than Evelyn Sharpe’s French Chocolate Cake recipe. This rich and velvety cake is a celebration of luxurious flavors and textures that will elevate any gathering or cozy night in. Let’s dive into creating this exquisite masterpiece in the comfort of your own home.
### Evelyn Sharpe’s French Chocolate Cake Recipe
#### Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– Berries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water into the batter. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
9. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth.
10. Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then spread it over the top of one of the cooled cake layers.
11. Place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining ganache over the cake, spreading it evenly on the top and sides.
12. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until smooth and fluffy.
13. Decorate the cake with the buttercream frosting by piping swirls or spreading it on top. You can also garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color.
14. Slice and serve this luscious French Chocolate Cake to your guests for a truly indulgent experience!
With Evelyn Sharpe’s French Chocolate Cake, you can create a luxurious and irresistible dessert for any occasion. The velvety chocolate layers, decadent ganache, and luscious buttercream come together to create a treat that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the magic of baking fill your home with the aroma of pure delight. Enjoy every slice of this delectable creation – it’s a true masterpiece of flavor and comfort!
