Coconut Layer Cake.

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This Chocolate Peppermint Cake is a decadent holiday dessert featuring rich chocolate layers infused with peppermint flavor, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

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

For the Ganache Frosting:

  • 12 ounces (340g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

For Garnish:

  • Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
  • Optional: Chocolate shavings or sprinkles

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  3. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).

Step 4: Bake the Cake

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Ganache

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer (do not boil).
  2. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
  3. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
  4. Stir in the butter and peppermint extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of ganache on top.
  2. Place the second cake layer on top and spread ganache evenly over the top and sides.
  3. Press crushed candy canes onto the top and sides of the cake for decoration.

Tips for Success

  • For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract slightly in the cake or frosting.
  • Chill the cake briefly after frosting for cleaner slices.
  • If you prefer a lighter frosting, use a whipped cream topping instead of ganache.

This Chocolate Peppermint Cake combines the richness of chocolate with the refreshing burst of peppermint, making it a perfect dessert for the holiday season. Enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful treat! 🎄🍫🍬.

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