Decadent Two-Layer Birthday Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Something Special Birthday Cake Recipe

Description:

A birthday cake should feel like an extraordinary experience, filled with flavor and made with love. This recipe creates a delightfully rich and flavorful two-layer cake that will surely stand out at any celebration. Though it requires a bit of preparation, the result is well worth it. Note that the preparation time listed does not include the additional time needed for frosting and decorating, so be sure to plan ahead to create something truly special!

Ingredients & Nutritional Information

Nutritional Breakdown (Per full recipe – including cake and icing):

• Calories: 9,038.5
• Fat: 405.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 248.2g
• Cholesterol: 1,864.8mg
• Sodium: 3,913.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 1,314.6g
  • Fiber: 11.2g
  • Sugar: 1,010g
• Protein: 70.3g

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven ensures even baking and perfect cake texture.

2. Prepare the cake pans: Grease two 9×12-inch round cake pans with straight sides. This can be done using butter or non-stick spray. After greasing, line the bottom of each pan with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking during baking.

3. Sift the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift 2 1/2 cups of cake flour. Measure carefully after sifting and then sift again with the 3 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This double sifting helps ensure that the ingredients are well aerated and evenly distributed, contributing to a lighter cake.

4. Beat the butter: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of unsalted butter until it becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Add sugar gradually: Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar to the butter mixture while continuing to beat. This process should take around 2-3 minutes to ensure the mixture becomes light and fluffy, as this is key to a tender cake.

6. Incorporate egg yolks: Add 4 large egg yolks (one at a time) into the mixture, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the yolks blend smoothly with the butter and sugar.

7. Add vanilla and almond extract: Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. If you prefer a subtle almond flavor, you can also add 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract, which enhances the cake’s flavor complexity.

8. Alternate flour and milk: Reduce the mixer speed to low, and alternately add the sifted flour mixture and 1 cup of milk in 3 batches. Start and end with the flour. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cake dense.

Step 2: Preparing the Egg Whites

9. Beat the egg whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the 4 large egg whites until soft peaks form. This may take several minutes with an electric mixer on medium-high speed.

10. Gradually add sugar to egg whites: While continuing to beat the egg whites, gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should be glossy and able to hold their shape when lifted.

11. Fold in the egg whites: Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Use a spatula and a gentle folding motion to ensure the batter remains light and airy.

12. Divide and level the batter: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans, using a spatula to level the tops.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

13. Bake the cakes: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when the tops spring back when lightly touched or when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

14. Cool the cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully unmold them onto wire racks and peel off the parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely before icing, as frosting a warm cake will cause the icing to melt.

Step 4: Preparing the Icing

15. Sift the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together 6 cups of powdered sugar and 3/4 cup of cocoa powder. Sifting helps prevent lumps in the icing, making it smooth and creamy.

16. Add the butter: Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat the mixture on high speed until light and fluffy.

17. Adjust consistency with milk: Slowly add 1/4 cup of milk, a few drops at a time, while continuing to beat the icing until it reaches the desired consistency. You want it to be thick enough to hold its shape but smooth enough to spread easily.

Step 5: Assembling the Cake

18. Frost the cake: Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on your serving platter. Spread an even layer of icing over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread a thin layer of icing all over the cake to create a “crumb coat.” This thin coat helps seal in any loose crumbs and creates a smooth surface for the final layer of frosting.

19. Decorate as desired: After the crumb coat has set, apply the remaining icing to the cake, spreading it evenly on the top and sides. Feel free to decorate the cake as you wish—whether with sprinkles, candles, or other birthday-themed decorations.

20. Serve and enjoy: Your Something Special Birthday Cake is now ready to enjoy! Slice and serve at your celebration, and watch the smiles as your guests enjoy this delectable treat.

Additional Tips:

• Room temperature ingredients: Be sure to bring your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before beginning the recipe. This ensures that they blend together smoothly, creating a more even and tender cake.

• Flavor variations: For a fun twist, try adding a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the icing for a rich mocha flavor. Alternatively, a handful of fresh berries between the cake layers can add a delightful burst of flavor.

• Storage: If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Keywords:

Low Protein, < 60 Mins, Oven