Description

This decadent Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake combines rich chocolate cake layers with a creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, all frosted with a luscious chocolate buttercream. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you're in the mood for a chocolate indulgence, this cake is a showstopper with its layers of velvety cheesecake and moist chocolate cake, finished with a smooth and creamy chocolate frosting

Ingredients

• For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
• 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (207g) sugar
• 6 tbsp (43g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (120ml) hot water
• For the Chocolate Cheesecake:
• 24 oz (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup (207g) sugar
• 1/2 cup (57g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2/3 cup (153g) sour cream, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 oz (169g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• For the Chocolate Buttercream:
• 1 3/4 cups unsalted butter
• 1 cup (114g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 cups (690g) powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• Pinch of salt
• 2 1/4 cups (380g) chocolate chips

Preparation Method

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (148°C). Line the inside of a 9-inch (23cm) cake pan with aluminum foil, pressing it into the pan to flatten.
Mix Cheesecake Batter: In a large mixer bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined, using low speed to prevent air bubbles. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing on low until combined. Gradually add melted and slightly cooled chocolate, mixing until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, beating slowly and scraping down the sides after each addition.
Bake Cheesecake: Place the cake pan inside a larger pan and fill the outer pan with warm water, about halfway up the sides of the smaller pan. Bake the cheesecake for about 50 minutes. The center should be set but still jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the door closed for 30 minutes. Crack the door open for another 30 minutes to cool slowly. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath, refrigerate until firm, about 4 hours or overnight.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers:

Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in hot water until smooth.
Bake Cake: Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Buttercream:

Mix Buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add heavy cream, a pinch of salt, and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in chocolate chips until well combined.
4. Assemble the Cake:

Layer Cake: Place one layer of chocolate cake on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of chocolate buttercream over the cake. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the frosted cake layer.
Frost Cake: Frost the top and sides of the cake with chocolate buttercream. Decorate with additional chocolate chips or shavings if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve: Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy the rich combination of chocolate cake and creamy cheesecake with every bite

Tips and Conclusion

Tips:
Cheesecake Tips: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter. For a smoother texture, make sure the melted chocolate is slightly cooled before adding it to the mixture.
Cake Texture: The hot water in the cake batter helps to create a moist and tender crumb. Be sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cheesecake Layer Cake is a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and moist chocolate cake, topped with a velvety chocolate buttercream. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake offers a luxurious and satisfying dessert experience. Enjoy each rich and decadent bite with a side of whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance