Decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake

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Introduction:
Indulge your sweet tooth with this Decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake, a heavenly creation that combines rich chocolate cake layers with luscious salted caramel filling and creamy chocolate ganache frosting. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions, celebrations, or any time you crave a luxurious treat. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this cake is sure to impress even the most discerning dessert lovers.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water

For the Salted Caramel Filling:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes

For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • Sea salt flakes, for garnish

Optional Additions:

  • Additional sea salt flakes for sprinkling between layers
  • Chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds) for added texture and flavor
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Make the Salted Caramel Filling:

  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula.
  • Once the sugar has melted and turned a deep amber color, add the butter and stir until melted.
  • Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt flakes. Let the caramel cool to room temperature before using.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

  • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
  • Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir the chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  • Place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a layer of salted caramel filling over the top, then sprinkle with sea salt flakes if desired.
  • Repeat with the remaining cake layers and caramel filling.
  • Pour the chocolate ganache frosting over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  • Use an offset spatula to spread the ganache evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
  • Garnish with additional sea salt flakes, if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

  • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the ganache to set.
  • Slice and serve the Decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired. Enjoy every luxurious bite!

Tips for Success:

  • Use good quality chocolate for both the cake and the ganache to ensure a rich and decadent flavor.
  • To prevent the cake layers from sticking to the pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper and grease the sides.
  • Be patient when making the caramel filling, as it can burn easily. Keep a close eye on the sugar as it caramelizes.
  • For a smoother ganache, chop the chocolate finely and pour the hot cream over it in a steady stream, stirring constantly.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 500-600 per slice (based on 12 slices)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 30-35g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 15-20g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 70-90mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 250-300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3-4g
  • Sugars: Approximately 35-40g
  • Protein: Approximately 6-8g

Recommendation:
Serve this Decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake as the centerpiece of your dessert table for a special occasion or celebration. Pair it with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of rich coffee to enhance its luxurious flavors. Enjoy the indulgence of this heavenly dessert with friends and loved ones, savoring each decadent bite!

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