classic chocolate custard cake

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
• For the Custard:
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• For the Chocolate Ganache:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the water, vanilla extract, oil, and vinegar. Mix until well combined.
• Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely.

2. Make the Custard:

• In a medium saucepan, mix the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
• Let the custard cool slightly, then spread evenly over the cooled cake.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

• Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
• Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
• Pour the ganache over the custard layer, spreading to cover completely.

4. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set the ganache and custard layers.
• Cut into squares and serve.

This cake offers a delicious blend of chocolatey cake, creamy custard, and rich ganache, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy crafting this delightful treat!