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Chocolate Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Filling and Chocolate Buttercream

A rich and indulgent chocolate layer cake filled with creamy cream cheese and topped with luscious chocolate buttercream, perfect for celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 475
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and lightness.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder For a rich chocolate flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Ensures cake rises beautifully.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda Adds lightness and fluffiness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 cup buttermilk For a tender crumb and moisture.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Enhances moisture and flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Bind the ingredients together.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup hot coffee or hot water Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
  • 1 8 oz block cream cheese, softened The star of the filling.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Makes the filling creamy.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the filling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
For the Chocolate Buttercream
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Forms a creamy base.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds rich chocolate flavor.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
  • 1/4 cup milk (plus more if needed) Adjusts the consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For a fragrant finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and mix until smooth.
  4. Gradually stir in the hot coffee or water until the batter is well combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and spread smoothly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
  6. Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Chill if needed.
Make the Chocolate Buttercream
  1. In another bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy.
  2. Sift in cocoa powder and mix. Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, alternating with milk, until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assembly
  1. Once cakes are cool, spread cream cheese filling between layers.
  2. Frost the top and sides of the cake with chocolate buttercream.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for best texture. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder. Don’t skip the coffee for enhanced flavor. If the buttercream is too soft, chill it for better consistency.