3 Layer Dark Chocolate Cake
Indulge in decadence with this show-stopping 3 Layer Dark Chocolate Cake, a timeless dessert perfect for celebrations or any occasion that calls for pure chocolate bliss. Featuring three ultra-moist layers made with rich cocoa powder, a hint of buttermilk for tangy depth, and the irresistible balance of granulated and brown sugars, this cake delivers unbeatable flavor in every bite. The secret to its incredible texture lies in a touch of boiling water, which keeps the layers wonderfully soft and tender. Generously frosted with velvety dark chocolate frosting, this cake is a dream for chocoholics, offering the perfect combination of sweetness and sophistication. Easy to prepare in under an hour and customizable with your favorite decorations, it serves as a stunning centerpiece for gatherings or an indulgent weekend treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving dessert, this 3 Layer Dark Chocolate Cake hits all the right notes.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups buttermilk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 4 cups dark chocolate frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth, about 2 minutes.
Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal and ensures a moist cake.
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops with a serrated knife if necessary to ensure flat layers.
Place one layer on a cake stand or plate. Spread about 1 cup of dark chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
Add the second cake layer on top and repeat with another 1 cup of frosting.
Place the third layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake.
Decorate as desired and serve. Enjoy your delicious 3 Layer Dark Chocolate Cake!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
8986 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 337.7 g | 433% | |
| Saturated Fat | 140.8 g | 704% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 67.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 598 mg | 199% | |
| Sodium | 6979 mg | 303% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1531.5 g | 557% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 122.3 g | 437% | |
| Total Sugars | 1059.6 g | ||
| Protein | 128.1 g | 256% | |
| Vitamin D | 7.8 mcg | 39% | |
| Calcium | 1119 mg | 86% | |
| Iron | 74.5 mg | 414% | |
| Potassium | 6224 mg | 132% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
