Chocolate Nut Layer Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup chopped mixed nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds, etc.)
• 1/2 cup chocolate shavings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
   • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
   • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
   • Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
   • Let the chocolate mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, whip it with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it holds firm peaks.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the whipped chocolate filling evenly over the top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
   • Spread a thin layer of the chocolate filling on top of the cake as a crumb coat. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
   • Once the crumb coat is set, spread a thicker layer of the filling on top of the cake.
4. Finish with Toppings:
   • Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the top of the cake.
   • Garnish with chocolate shavings.
5. Serve:
   • Slice and enjoy this rich and decadent chocolate nut layer cake!

Feel free to adjust the ingredients and decoration to your liking!