1½ cups Nestle Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
(Optional: chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or raspberries for garnish!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans or a 9x13-inch pan.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla.
Gradually add wet ingredients to dry, mixing until smooth.
Stir in melted chocolate chips.
3. Bake the Cake
Pour batter into prepared pans.
Bake for 30-35 mins (until a toothpick comes out clean).
Cool 10 mins in pans, then transfer to a wire rack.
4. Make the Ganache Frosting
Heat cream and butter until steaming (do not boil).
Pour over chocolate chips, let sit 2 mins, then stir until smooth.
Add vanilla and cool slightly (it will thicken as it cools).
5. Assemble & Decorate
Spread ganache between layers and over the top.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or berries.
Pro Tips for the Best Cake
🔹 Use hot coffee – It intensifies the chocolate flavor (you won’t taste coffee!).
🔹 Don’t overmix – Stir just until combined for a tender crumb.
🔹 For extra fudginess – Underbake slightly (toothpick with a few crumbs).
🔹 Make ahead – Cake stays moist for 3 days (store covered).
Variations & Swaps
🍦 Serve with ice cream – Vanilla or mint chip pairs perfectly.
☕ Mocha twist – Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the batter.
🍒 Black Forest style – Add cherry pie filling between layers.
🌰 Nutty crunch – Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans.
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk instead of coffee?
A: Yes, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor (you won’t taste it!).
Q: Can I make cupcakes instead?
A: Yes! Bake 18-20 mins at 350°F (175°C).
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cover at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
Final Thoughts
This Death by Chocolate Cake is sinfully rich, moist, and unforgettable—the ultimate dessert for chocolate obsessives! One bite and you’ll be hooked.