A decadent chocolate birthday cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Rich, moist layers of chocolate cake are bursting with flavor, thanks to cocoa powder and often a touch of coffee for extra depth. Topped with creamy chocolate frosting, this cake is a delightful indulgence for any birthday celebration. Whether you choose a classic decoration or something more playful, a chocolate birthday cake is a delicious way to show someone you care.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups (198 grams) self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon (4 grams) baking powder
- 14 tablespoons (197 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (198 grams) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon (14 grams) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (227 grams) milk
- 2/3 cup (75 grams) cocoa powder
For the Syrup:
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) water
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) kirsch liqueur
- 15 grams granulated sugar
For the Chocolate Cream:
- 300ml fresh cream
- 75 grams chocolate
For Decoration:
- Fresh strawberries (or other seasonal fruits)
- Apple slices
- Chocolate plate or handmade cookies (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bring the eggs to room temperature. Combine the butter and milk in a bowl and warm it up.
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar over a double boiler until the mixture reaches 38-40 degrees Celsius. Then, beat at high speed until thick and pale. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased and lined cake mold. Bake at 160 degrees Celsius for 30-33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool upside down.
4. Prepare the Syrup: In a separate bowl, combine water, kirsch liqueur, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Make the Chocolate Cream: Melt the chocolate over a hot water bath. Whip 50g of fresh cream until fluffy, then mix it with the melted chocolate. Whip the remaining fresh cream until stiff peaks form, then fold in the chocolate mixture.
6. Assemble the Cake: Slice the cooled cake into layers. Brush each layer with the prepared syrup. Spread chocolate cream and sliced strawberries between each layer. Frost the cake with the remaining chocolate cream.
7. Decorate: Use a piping bag to pipe decorative patterns on the cake. Top with apple slices and any additional decorations you like, such as chocolate plates or handmade cookies.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your delicious Birthday Chocolate Cake to celebrate any special occasion!
This mouthwatering cake is sure to be a hit at any birthday celebration. Enjoy every bite of its rich chocolatey goodness!