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Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake Recipe

Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake Recipe

4.8 from 30 reviews

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this Epic Chocolate Overload Explosion Cake. Layers of rich chocolate cake filled with decadent chocolate mousse, frosted with creamy chocolate buttercream, drizzled with luscious chocolate ganache, and topped with an assortment of chocolate decorations. A show-stopping dessert for any chocolate lover!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot coffee

For the Chocolate Mousse Filling:

  • 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache Drip:

  • 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • ¼ cup heavy cream

For the Chocolate Overload Decorations:

  • Chocolate shavings
  • Chocolate curls
  • Brownie bites
  • Chocolate truffles
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Chocolate candies (M&M’s, Hershey’s Kisses, etc.)

Instructions

  1. Bake the Chocolate Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
    Prepare the chocolate cake batter by following the instructions in the Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake recipe (or use your favorite chocolate cake recipe).
    Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before assembling.
  2. Make the Chocolate Mousse Filling: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
    In a saucepan, heat ½ cup of heavy cream over medium heat until simmering.
    Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute.
    Gently whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
    In a chilled bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
    Gently fold the cooled chocolate mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined.
  3. Make the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
    Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with heavy cream, and beat until light and fluffy.
    Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
    Spread a layer of chocolate mousse filling over the first cake layer.
    Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the chocolate buttercream frosting.
  5. Create the Ganache Drip: Prepare the chocolate ganache by heating ¼ cup heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering.
    Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for a minute. Whisk until smooth.
    Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.
    Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  6. Decorate with Chocolate Overload: Arrange an assortment of chocolate decorations on top of the cake and around the base—be creative! Use chocolate shavings, curls, brownie bites, truffles, mini chocolate chips, or chocolate candies like M&M’s or Hershey’s Kisses for the ultimate chocolate overload.
  7. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set the mousse and ganache.
    Serve and enjoy the ultimate chocolate indulgence!

Notes

  • For best results, use high-quality chocolate for a rich flavor.
  • Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before assembling to prevent the mousse from melting.
  • Experiment with different chocolate decorations to personalize your cake.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Buttercream, Chocolate Ganache, Cake Decorating, Chocolate Dessert