### How to Make a Chocolate Triple Layer Cake with Fluffy Chocolate Frosting
If you're looking to impress your friends and family, a classic triple layer chocolate cake with fluffy frosting is an excellent choice! This recipe combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate and the light texture of a buttery sponge for a dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Follow these detailed steps to create this delicious treat.
#### Ingredients
**For the Cake:**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (make sure it’s not Dutch processed)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
**For the Frosting:**
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
#### Equipment Needed:
- Three 9-inch cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Preparing the Cake Layers
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch cake pans with non-stick spray.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. **Add Wet Ingredients**: Stir in the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on low speed to blend for about 2 minutes.
4. **Fold in Boiling Water**: Slowly pour the boiling water into the mixture while continuing to mix on low speed. Be careful; it will be very hot! Mix until just combined.
5. **Pour Batter into Pans**: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, spreading it out gently with a spatula.
6. **Bake**: Bake for 20-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
#### Making the Frosting
1. **Melt Chocolate and Butter**: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter together until smooth. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes if needed.
2. **Mix in Powdered Sugar**: Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the powdered sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
3. **Add Vanilla and Salt**: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. If you prefer a smoother frosting, beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes.
4. **Frosting Consistency**: If your frosting is too thick, add a little milk; if it’s too thin, chill it briefly to thicken up. Adjust as needed for the perfect consistency.
#### Assembling the Cake
1. **Apply Frosting Between Layers**: Once all layers are completely cooled and frosted, place one layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting over this layer.
2. **Repeat with Remaining Layers**: Place the next layer on top and spread frosting between it as well. Repeat until you have used all three layers.
3. **Top Layer and Frosting**: Apply a final coat of frosting around the entire cake, smoothing it out with your spatula. You can create a crumb coat first to lock in any loose crumbs before applying the full layer.
4. **Decorate as Desired**: Use chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for a beautiful finish.
### Tips and Variations
- **Flavor Enhancements**: For an extra touch, you can add a few drops of peppermint extract or espresso powder to the cake batter.
- **Glaze Layer**: After frosting each layer, consider adding a thin glaze (made from confectioner’s sugar and hot water) for a shiny finish.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create an impressive chocolate triple layer cake with fluffy chocolate frosting that is sure to impress your guests! Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply sharing the joy of delicious baking. Enjoy making this beautiful dessert!