Vanilla Layer Cake with Chocolate Drizzle

Here’s a classic yet elegant dessert: a Vanilla Layer Cake with Chocolate Drizzle. Soft, fluffy vanilla cake layers paired with a rich chocolate ganache drizzle make this a showstopper for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet craving.

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🎂 Vanilla Layer Cake with Chocolate Drizzle

🧁 Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (room temp)

For the Chocolate Drizzle (Ganache):

• 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

• ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Optional Filling/Frosting (between layers or as base coat):

• Whipped cream, buttercream, or a thin layer of ganache

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).

4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

5. Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour.

6. Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Prepare Chocolate Drizzle (Ganache):

1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan (or microwave) until just about to boil.

2. Pour over chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.

3. Let cool for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Optional: Level the cake layers with a knife if domed.

2. Place one layer on a cake stand. Add filling (buttercream or whipped cream), then top with second layer.

3. Pour chocolate ganache slowly over the top, letting it drip down the sides for that beautiful “drizzle” effect.

4. Let set at room temperature or chill slightly to firm up.

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✨ Decoration Ideas:

• Add chocolate curls, sprinkles, berries, or piped whipped cream around the edges.

• Drizzle white chocolate over the top for contrast.

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🍽️ Tips for Best Results:

• Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.

• For deeper flavor, add 1–2 tsp almond extract to the cake batter.

• Chill cake before slicing for cleaner layers.