Layered Chocolate and Cream Dessert

Layered Chocolate and Cream Dessert

Ingredients:

• For the chocolate cake layers:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup hot water
• For the cream layers:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese (optional for extra richness)
• For the topping:
  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or grated chocolate

Instructions:

1. Make the Chocolate Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add the vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
   • Gradually add the hot water to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut it into thin slices.
2. Prepare the Cream Layers:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • If using mascarpone cheese, fold it gently into the whipped cream until well combined.
3. Assemble the Dessert:
   • In a large, clear serving dish, place a layer of chocolate cake slices at the bottom.
   • Spread a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the cake slices.
   • Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Add the Finishing Touch:
   • Sprinkle the top layer with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.

Enjoy your delicious layered chocolate and cream dessert!