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Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake

A delightful and forgiving chocolate cake that's perfect for any occasion, filled with deep chocolate flavor and crowned with chocolate ganache.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Use Dutch-processed for a deeper chocolate note.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk Full-fat gives a silkier crumb.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist; do not substitute with butter.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water Unlocks the cocoa and makes the batter glossy.
Frosting and Garnish
  • to taste Chocolate frosting For layering
  • to taste Chocolate ganache For topping
  • to taste Chocolate shavings For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then tap out excess flour.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and glossy.
  4. Slowly stir in the boiling water to thin the batter.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Assembly
  1. Once cooled, stack the layers with chocolate frosting between them, using more frosting if desired.
  2. Cover the top and sides with chocolate ganache, and sprinkle chocolate shavings on top.
  3. Slice and serve.

Notes

Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days and bring to room temperature before serving. Freeze slices for up to 2 months.