Decadent Sour Cream Dark Chocolate Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Decadent Sour Cream Dark Chocolate Cake.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take three 9-inch round baking pans and give them a good greasing and flouring to ensure your cake comes out perfectly.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, dissolve the cocoa powder in the boiling water. This step is crucial as it helps to intensify the chocolate flavor. Set this mixture aside to cool completely; patience is key here!

3. Step 3

   In another bowl, combine the white sugar and canola oil. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Now, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to add a lovely aroma to your batter.

4. Step 4

   In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps to aerate the flour and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents. Now, mix this dry mixture and the sour cream into the creamed sugar mixture alternately, starting and ending with the flour mixture. This will create a beautifully smooth batter.

5. Step 5

   Once everything is well combined, gently fold in the cooled cocoa mixture until fully incorporated. The batter will be rich and luscious, perfect for a chocolate lover!

6. Step 6

   Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

7. Step 7

   After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If you're planning to store them, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and pop them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

8. Step 8

   For the frosting, beat some butter in a bowl until it's creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in confectioners' sugar, half a cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Add a pinch of salt and continue beating on medium-high until the frosting is light and fluffy, which should take about 5 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Now, it's time to assemble your cake! Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous 1/4 of the frosting on top. Add the second layer and repeat the frosting process. Finally, place the third layer on top and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Your masterpiece is ready to be enjoyed!