Description

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake. Packed with layers of moist chocolate cake, gooey chocolate chips, and a luscious dark chocolate ganache, this dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Perfect for special occasions or any time you crave an intensely rich and decadent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee or boiling water

Chocolate Components

1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (divided)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup mini chocolate candies or chunks (optional)
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (for topping)

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agents and cocoa for a uniform batter.
Add wet ingredients: Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
Incorporate hot liquid: Slowly stir in the hot coffee or boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this step enhances the chocolate flavor and ensures a moist cake.
Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of the semisweet chocolate chips to distribute pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake.
Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the ganache: Heat heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens but remains pourable.
Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Pour a generous layer of ganache over it, then sprinkle with mini chocolate candies or chunks if using. Top with the second cake layer and pour the remaining ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides beautifully.
Garnish and serve: Decorate the top with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or additional chocolate chips for an extra touch of indulgence. Slice and serve in small portions due to the cake’s richness.

Notes

For an even richer chocolate experience, add a layer of chocolate buttercream or mousse between the cake layers.
This cake is very rich, so serve it in small slices to satisfy your chocolate cravings without overwhelming.
You can prepare the cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 580
Sugar: 48g
Sodium: 330mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg