Special Chocolate Cake

Special Chocolate Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

| Servings: 12

Introduction

Special Chocolate Cake is a decadent and rich dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. This moist and delicious cake is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

History

The origins of chocolate cake can be traced back to the 18th century when chocolate was first introduced to Europe. Over the years, different variations of chocolate cake have been created, each with its own unique twist.

Ingredients

Cake

2 cups sugar
0.75 cup butter
2 eggs
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
0.5 cup cocoa
0.5 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot water

Icing

0.25 cup melted butter
4 oz (113 g) package cream cheese
1 lb (454 g) box powdered sugar
0.5 cup cocoa

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round pans.
In a mixing bowl, blend the sugar and butter until creamy.
Add the eggs and beat well.
Sift the flour before measuring, then resift with soda, salt, and cocoa.
Add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture alternately with buttermilk, making about three additions of each. Beat after each addition until smooth.
Add the vanilla and water, and beat until well mixed.
Divide the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes, then transfer them to racks to finish cooling.
To make the frosting, cream the butter and cream cheese together.
Mix the sugar and cocoa, then add to the butter and cream cheese mixture.
Beat until well mixed and smooth.
Spread the frosting on the cooled cakes.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture.
Use different types of frosting, such as a ganache or buttercream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly measure your ingredients to ensure the perfect texture and taste.

- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.

- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Special Chocolate Cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Techniques

Properly creaming the butter and sugar is essential for a light and fluffy cake.

- Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a smooth and even texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular milk instead of buttermilk in a pinch.

- Margarine can be substituted for butter in the cake and frosting.

Make Ahead Tips

Special Chocolate Cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Special Chocolate Cake with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Special Chocolate Cake contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Special Chocolate Cake contains approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Special Chocolate Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Special Chocolate Cake contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Special Chocolate Cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Special Chocolate Cake contains dairy (butter, cream cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Special Chocolate Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Special Chocolate Cake is a classic dessert that is perfect for any chocolate lover. With its rich and moist texture, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Special Chocolate Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage on the outskirts of town. Martha was known for her incredible baking skills, and she had promised me a treat that I would never forget.

As I sat at her kitchen table, sipping on a cup of fragrant tea, Martha pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from her recipe box. She handed it to me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and said, "This, my dear, is my most prized recipe. It's a family secret, passed down from generation to generation."

I eagerly scanned the ingredients list, my heart racing with excitement. The recipe called for rich cocoa powder, creamy butter, and a dash of espresso for an extra kick. I could practically taste the decadent chocolate melting in my mouth.

Martha began to walk me through the steps, her hands moving with practiced precision as she measured out each ingredient. She explained the importance of sifting the dry ingredients, of beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, of folding in the eggs one at a time.

As the cake baked in the oven, the scent of chocolate wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Martha and I chatted and laughed, the hours slipping away as we waited for the cake to cool.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. Martha carefully sliced into the cake, revealing a rich, moist crumb that practically glistened in the sunlight. I took a bite, closing my eyes as the flavors danced on my tongue. It was pure magic.

From that day on, I knew that I had to learn how to make Martha's Special Chocolate Cake for myself. I begged her to teach me, to show me the intricacies of her technique so that I could recreate this masterpiece in my own kitchen.

And so, over the course of many afternoons spent together, Martha patiently guided me through the process. She shared her tips and tricks, her family anecdotes and memories. I soaked up every word, every gesture, every flick of her wrist as she expertly whipped up another batch of chocolate batter.

As the months passed, I began to make the cake on my own, experimenting with different variations and additions. I added a pinch of cinnamon for warmth, a handful of chopped nuts for crunch, a splash of rum for depth.

Each time I made the cake, I felt Martha's presence beside me, her spirit infusing every bite with love and nostalgia. It became a staple at family gatherings, a tradition at holidays, a comfort on lonely nights.

Years went by, and Martha grew older, her hands no longer able to knead dough or stir batter. But her legacy lived on in me, in the generations to come who would taste her Special Chocolate Cake and know that it was made with a little bit of magic.

And so, dear reader, I share this recipe with you now, in the hopes that you will experience the same sense of wonder and joy that I felt all those years ago. May this cake bring you as much happiness as it has brought me, and may you pass on the tradition to those you hold dear.

With love and chocolatey goodness,

Your grandmother