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Black Magic Cake

A dramatic chocolate cake combining deep cocoa and coffee flavors, topped with a glossy ganache, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk Use buttermilk for a richer flavor.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup black coffee or espresso Add water to make 1 cup if using espresso.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil
Ganache Ingredients
  • 12 ounces dark chocolate chips
  • 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the bottom of two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and spray the bottom and sides with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the milk, eggs, coffee, vanilla, and oil to the bowl with dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping down the bowl halfway through.
  4. Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 35 minutes. Cool for 10-15 minutes, then remove from pans.
Making the Ganache
  1. Heat the cream until steaming, pour over chocolate chips, cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Level the cake tops, spread about ½ cup ganache on one layer, stack the second layer on top.
  2. Pour extra ganache over the cake, smoothing it with an offset spatula.

Notes

Serve slightly warm or at room temperature. Use a hot, clean knife for perfect edges. Top with whipped cream or espresso beans for an extra touch.