Description

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream with Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake. This decadent dessert features rich, moist layers of chocolate cake, a creamy caramel-infused whipped filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache dripping down the sides. Topped with dark chocolate chunks, silky frosting swirls, and striking blue candy-coated chocolates, this cake is a showstopper for any celebration or special occasion. Whether you’re looking for an elegant birthday cake, a luxurious holiday treat, or simply a dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

½ cup vegetable oil

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup hot coffee

For the Filling:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

¼ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup caramel bits or caramel sauce

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup heavy cream

For Decoration:

Dark chocolate chunks

Blue candy-coated chocolates

Chocolate frosting swirls

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Pour in the hot coffee and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Filling:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the caramel bits or drizzle in caramel sauce. Keep refrigerated until needed.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
- Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly before use.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread the caramel-infused whipped filling over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and press gently.
- Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides beautifully.
Decorate:
- Pipe decorative swirls of chocolate frosting around the edges.
- Scatter dark chocolate chunks and blue candy-coated chocolates on top.
- Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert