First, get everything ready to make the cake.
Heat up the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and put parchment paper at the bottom.
Combine the following dry ingredients in a big bowl: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix the liquid ingredients together: In a separate bowl, beat buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mix the wet ingredients with the dry ones until they are well combined. Pour the hot water into the dough little by little, mixing until it is smooth. The dough will be stretched out.
Bake: Put the same amount of batter into each cake pan that has been prepared. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Cool: Leave the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then move them to wire racks to cool down completely.
Step 2: Prepare the chocolate ganache.
Warm the cream: In a small pot, heat the heavy cream on medium heat until it starts to simmer. Don't allow it to reach boiling point.
Mix the chocolate: Put the chopped chocolate in a bowl that can withstand heat. Pour the warm cream on top of the chocolate and wait for 5 minutes. Put the butter in and mix until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Let the ganache cool down to room temperature. Then, put it in the fridge until it thickens and can be spread, which should take about 1 hour.
Step 3: Get the chocolate frosting ready.
Mix the butter: In a big bowl, mix the softened butter until it becomes creamy.
Add the dry ingredients: Slowly mix in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder while beating at a low speed until they are well mixed.
Put in the cream and vanilla: Include the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a little bit of salt. Mix vigorously until the frosting becomes airy and fluffy.
Step 4: Put the cake together.
Make sure the cakes are flat: If needed, use a saw-toothed knife to even out the tops of the cakes once they have cooled.
Layer and Filling: Put one cake layer on a plate or cake stand. Put a lot of chocolate ganache on the top. Put the second cake layer on top of the chocolate filling.
Cover the cake with chocolate frosting on the top and sides, using a spatula or cake scraper to make it smooth.
Step 5: Add decorations and serve.
To give the final touch, you can pour melted chocolate on the cake or sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for decoration.
Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before cutting it so the chocolate topping and frosting can harden.
Serve: Cut the cake into slices and add fresh berries or a spoonful of whipped cream on top, if you like.
Advice for being successful
Ingredients at room temperature: Ensure all ingredients, like eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature for the best outcome.
Chill the ganache: Allow it to thicken in the fridge before putting it on the cake to avoid it dripping.
Even Layers: Use a saw-toothed knife to make cake layers flat for a polished appearance.
This rich chocolate cake is a dream come true for anyone who loves chocolate. With its delicious cake layers, chocolate topping, and creamy frosting, it's great for birthdays, holidays, or any special event. Have fun cooking and savoring the tasty food!