Chocolate Raspberry Cake

Introduction

Chocolate Raspberry Cake is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries. This cake is perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its layers of chocolate cake and raspberry filling, it’s a treat that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful way to impress family and friends. The balance of chocolate and raspberry flavors creates a delicious dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, it’s not too hard to make! Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you can create a stunning cake that will be the star of any gathering.

How to Make Chocolate Raspberry Cake

Here’s a simple guide to making this mouth-watering cake from scratch.

Ingredients:

1.5 Tablespoons water
1.5 Tablespoons cornstarch
3 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons espresso powder (optional)
1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
2 large eggs
3/4 cup full-fat sour cream
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot water or black coffee
1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup unsalted butter
3 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
8 ounces quality semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup raspberry liqueur (or more cream)
Fresh raspberries
Fresh mint

Directions:

Make the Raspberry Filling: Whisk cornstarch and water together until dissolved. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cornstarch mixture, raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir and mash raspberries as they thaw. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Cool and refrigerate.
Make the Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line three 9-inch cake pans. In one bowl, mix dry ingredients; in another, mix wet ingredients. Combine both mixtures, adding hot water or coffee. Bake for 24–26 minutes. Cool.
Make the Chocolate Buttercream: Beat butter until smooth and gradually add sugar, cocoa, cream, salt, and vanilla.
Layer the Cake: Place layers of cake on a plate. Alternate layers of buttercream and raspberry filling between the cakes.
Apply the Crumb Coat: Frost a thin layer over the entire cake and chill it in the fridge.
Make the Ganache: Heat cream and liqueur in a saucepan. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl and stir until smooth. Chill the ganache.
Frost the Cake: Pour the ganache over the chilled cake. Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves.
Serve: Enjoy the cake chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve Chocolate Raspberry Cake

You can serve Chocolate Raspberry Cake on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. A sprig of fresh mint on top adds a nice touch.

How to Store Chocolate Raspberry Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months frozen.

Tips to Make Chocolate Raspberry Cake

Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; just mix until combined.
Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Variation

You can switch up the flavors by using different fruits, like strawberries or cherries, for the filling. You can also try using different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, for a richer taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well in this recipe. Just thaw them before using.

2. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
You can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to make this cake gluten-free.

3. How can I make this cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter or use dark chocolate for a less sweet flavor.

Enjoy your baking and have fun creating this delicious Chocolate Raspberry Cake!