Rich chocolate cake layered with smooth ganache and made from scratch with cocoa, espresso, and sour cream for extra moisture. This moist and easy chocolate layer cake is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or anytime you need a decadent homemade dessert. Includes full ingredient list, baking instructions, and ganache recipe.

Rich, moist, and intensely chocolaty, this cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Layered with silky ganache and packed with deep cocoa flavor, it’s perfect for any celebration—or no reason at all.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (400g) white sugar
½ cup (50g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
2 large eggs
½ cup (128g) sour cream
½ cup (110g) vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp espresso powder
1 cup (240ml) hot water

For the Chocolate Ganache

16 oz (450g) chocolate (milk, dark, or a mix), chopped
2 cups (480ml) heavy cream

Instructions

Make the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch (20 cm) cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk until fully combined and free of lumps.
In a small bowl, dissolve the espresso powder in the hot water. Pour into the batter and stir until incorporated.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Ganache

Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a saucepan, heat the cream over medium-low heat until it begins to steam (do not boil). Pour the hot cream over the chocolate.
Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.
Allow ganache to cool to a spreadable consistency before using.

Assemble the Cake

Level the tops of each cake layer using a serrated knife.
Carefully slice each cake in half horizontally, creating six thin layers.
Place one layer on a cake board or plate. Spread a generous amount of ganache over the top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
Cover the entire cake with ganache. For a rustic look, spread it messily à la Matilda. For a polished finish, smooth the sides and top and add a chocolate drip.

Tips

Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache—dark chocolate intensifies the richness.
Sifting the dry ingredients helps create a light, lump-free batter.
Let the ganache cool completely before assembling to avoid sliding layers.

Variations and Substitutions

Chocolate types: Try a 70/30 mix of dark and milk chocolate for balance.
Filling options: Add a layer of raspberry jam or chopped chocolate between the layers for extra texture.
Dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and cream for a non-dairy version.
Espresso powder: Omit if desired, but it enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! The cake layers and ganache can be made 1–2 days ahead. Store the layers wrapped at room temperature and the ganache in the fridge. Bring ganache to room temperature before using.

Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What if I only have two pans?
Bake in batches. The batter can rest at room temperature while the first batch bakes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream.
Dust with cocoa powder or garnish with chocolate curls for a decadent finish.
Pair with espresso or red wine to balance the sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate chocolate flavor: Deep, rich, and indulgent in every bite.
Moist and tender: Thanks to sour cream and oil, the cake stays soft for days.
Elegant or casual: Dress it up for a showstopper or keep it rustic and cozy.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.