chocolate cake, inspired by the image you’ve shared. Below is the requested detailed breakdown.
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## **Introduction**
Chocolate cake is one of the most cherished desserts across the globe. Its rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor make it an all-time favorite for celebrations, gatherings, or even as a sweet indulgence on a regular day. This recipe, with its simple ingredients and straightforward method, results in a luscious chocolate cake that anyone can master.
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## **Ingredients**
### For the Cake:
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
### For the Ganache Glaze:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for shine)
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## **Instructions**
### Making the Cake:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan. Optionally, line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Combine the Wet Ingredients**: Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with a hand or stand mixer until the batter is smooth.
4. **Incorporate the Boiling Water**: Gradually mix in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist cake.
5. **Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool**: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
### Making the Ganache:
1. **Heat the Cream**: In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer.
2. **Melt the Chocolate**: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. **Add Butter**: Stir in the butter for extra shine, if desired.
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## **History**
Chocolate cake dates back to the late 19th century when cocoa became widely available. Its evolution has been remarkable, from dense, bread-like versions to the light and airy cakes we enjoy today. The invention of baking powder and modern ovens revolutionized the dessert.
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## **Benefits**
– **Mood Boosting**: Chocolate contains compounds like serotonin and dopamine, which help improve mood.
– **Rich in Antioxidants**: Cocoa is packed with flavonoids that fight free radicals in the body.
– **Energy Source**: The combination of sugar and carbohydrates provides a quick energy boost.
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## **Formation**
This chocolate cake forms a dense, moist crumb that pairs perfectly with the glossy, rich ganache glaze. The boiling water in the batter ensures a tender texture, while the ganache adds an indulgent layer of sweetness.
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## **Conclusion**
This rich chocolate cake is perfect for every occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Its deep chocolate flavor, paired with the smooth ganache, guarantees satisfaction for chocolate enthusiasts. Serve it as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
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## **Lovers of Chocolate Cake**
Chocolate cake is beloved by dessert lovers worldwide, including:
– Home bakers who enjoy creating indulgent treats.
– Party hosts looking for a universally loved dessert.
– Children who adore its rich sweetness.
– Chocolate enthusiasts who can’t resist its depth of flavor.
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## **Nutrition (Per Serving)**
– **Calories**: ~350
– **Fat**: 18g
– **Carbohydrates**: 45g
– **Protein**: 5g
– **Fiber**: 3g
– **Sugar**: 30g
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Enjoy baking and savor every bite! Let me know if you’d like step-by-step visuals or any modifications to the recipe.
