Have you ever wanted to create a show-stopping dessert that is just as delightful to look at as it is to eat? Look no further than our recipe for Shadow Layer Cake. This stunning dessert features layers of rich chocolate cake and creamy frosting, all topped with a dark chocolate glaze. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly decadent.
Shadow Layer Cake
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
For the frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 1/3 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
For the chocolate glaze:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water, the batter will be thin but that’s normal.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting:
1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth.
2. Add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Assembly:
1. Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
2. Repeat with the remaining cake layers and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
3. Place the cake in the refrigerator while you prepare the chocolate glaze.
For the chocolate glaze:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute before whisking until smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Final Steps:
1. Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the chilled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Use a spatula to create a marbled effect by swirling the glaze on the top of the cake.
3. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set.
Indulge in the rich and decadent layers of our Shadow Layer Cake for a truly unforgettable dessert experience. Enjoy the process of creating this masterpiece and relish the joy it brings to those lucky enough to enjoy a slice with you.
