Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Servings: 12 slices | Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

Calories per slice: Approximately 400-450 calories (depending on portion size)

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Tip:

This rich and indulgent Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling is perfect for a special occasion or dessert after dinner. It combines the deep flavors of chocolate with the creamy texture of the cream cheese filling, making it a delicious treat for your taste buds.

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Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 ½ tsp baking soda

• 1 ½ tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup buttermilk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup hot coffee (or hot water)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Add the hot coffee (or hot water) to the batter, mixing gently. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.

6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

2. Bake the Cake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

1. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese filling.

2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.

2. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, then spread a generous amount of the cream cheese filling on top.

3. Repeat with the next two layers, adding filling between each layer of cake.

4. Top with the final layer of cake.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy!

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Tips for Saving Energy:

• Use an induction cooktop or a toaster oven to bake smaller portions of this cake. These appliances use less energy than a traditional oven.

• Consider using a stand mixer or hand mixer for quicker and more efficient mixing, reducing the time the oven is on.

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Who Should Enjoy This Cake?:

• This cake is great for anyone who enjoys indulgent desserts and chocolate flavors.

• It’s perfect for celebrations or when you want to treat yourself to a delicious dessert.

Who Should Avoid It?:

• Individuals with lactose intolerance should avoid the cream cheese filling or use lactose-free cream cheese.

• People on low-calorie or low-sugar diets might want to avoid this rich dessert due to its calorie and sugar content.

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Enjoy this decadent and creamy chocolate cake with a tangy cream cheese filling! Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or as a treat any time you need a little indulgence.