Fudge Layer Cake

Recipe View Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients (10 minutes). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and leavening.

Recipe View Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars (8 minutes). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a stable base for the cake batter.

Recipe View Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla (2 minutes). Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Recipe View Step 4: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients (5 minutes). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Recipe View Step 5: Prepare the Pans (5 minutes). Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds.

Recipe View Step 6: Bake the Cakes (25-30 minutes). Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Recipe View Step 7: Cool the Cakes (10 minutes in pans, then fully on wire racks). Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely. This prevents them from sticking and allows them to retain their shape.

Recipe View Step 8: Make the Fudge Frosting (10 minutes). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Gradually add the melted and cooled chocolate and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.

Recipe View Step 9: Frost the Cake (15 minutes). Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread with a generous layer of fudge frosting. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Recipe View Step 10: Optional Decoration (5 minutes). For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle the frosted cake with chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder.