Decadence need not be a distant aspiration; it can be achieved right in your kitchen with this delightful recipe for Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling. With rich layers of chocolate and velvety cream cheese, this cake is perfect for any celebration or a simple indulgent treat. It’s a classic combination that never fails to impress!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This chocolate cake recipe combines a luxurious chocolate batter with a creamy cream cheese filling, creating an exquisite balance of flavors. The addition of hot coffee enhances the chocolate’s richness, while the cream cheese adds a tangy contrast. Moreover, this cake is simple to bake, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers. You will love how the cake becomes even more decadent when topped with a glossy chocolate ganache. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to dessert!
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature for smooth blending.
- Don’t Skip the Coffee: The coffee deepens the chocolate flavor, making it richer.
- Cake Layers: Ensure the cake layers are level for easy frosting and presentation.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water (if preferred)
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional but Highly Recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp butter (for shine)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla. Beat until creamy and well combined. Set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Slowly stir in hot coffee until the batter is thin but uniform.
- Step 3: Assemble: Pour a thin layer of chocolate batter into each pan (about 1/3 of the total). Divide the cream cheese filling evenly between the pans, spooning it gently into the center. Do not spread to the edges. Pour remaining chocolate batter on top, covering the filling.
- Step 4: Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge (not center) comes out clean. The cream cheese center will remain soft. Let cakes cool completely before removing from pans.
- Step 5: Ganache (Optional): Heat the cream just to a simmer. Pour it over chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Stir in butter for extra shine. Pour over cooled cake and let set for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
Chill the cake slightly for cleaner slices. It pairs beautifully with fresh raspberries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, making it an elegant dessert for any occasion.
FAQs
- Can I use a different filling? Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese filling with a chocolate mousse or a fruit filling for variety.
- How do I store leftover cake? Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- What can I substitute for eggs? To make this recipe vegan, replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
- Is the ganache really necessary? While optional, the ganache enhances the decoration and adds an extra layer of chocolate richness. It’s highly recommended!
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is a shining example of indulgence made easy. With each bite, you’ll experience the harmonious blend of rich chocolate and creamy tang, making it an unbeatable combination for any gathering. Regardless of the occasion, your guests will be clamoring for seconds. Try this recipe today and elevate your baking game to a new level!