Perfect Chocolate Cake

Recipe View 15 mins Bloom the Cocoa: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and boiling water until smooth. Set aside to cool for 15 minutes. (Time: 15 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. (Time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. This ensures even distribution and a light texture. (Time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. (Time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Incorporate Wet and Dry: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the cooled cocoa mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined; do not overmix. (Time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View 22 mins Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. (Time: 18-22 minutes)

Recipe View 25 mins Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 5 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. (Time: 25 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Prepare the Buttercream Frosting: While the cakes cool, beat the softened butter for the frosting in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually mix in the confectioners' sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until light and fluffy. (Time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View 8 mins Make the Whipped Cream Filling: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip. (Time: 8 minutes)

Recipe View 10 mins Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, trim the tops if necessary to create even surfaces. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread with one-third of the whipped cream filling. Repeat with the second layer and another portion of the filling. Top with the final cake layer. (Time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View 15 mins Frost the Cake: Frost the sides of the cake with the chocolate buttercream, creating a decorative ridge around the top edge. Fill the center with the remaining whipped cream filling. (Time: 15 minutes)