Pumpkin Chocolate Cake Layers

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Pumpkin Chocolate Cake Layers.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While it warms up, take two 9-inch round cake pans and give them a good greasing and flouring.

3. Step 3

   For an extra touch, line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure your cakes release easily later on.

4. Step 4

   In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and allspice.

5. Step 5

   This aromatic blend will add depth to your cake.

6. Step 6

   Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, canola oil, and applesauce.

7. Step 7

   Using an electric mixer on low speed, mix these ingredients until they’re well blended.

8. Step 8

   Next, add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is harmoniously combined.

9. Step 9

   Beat in the eggs one at a time on medium speed, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

10. Step 10

    Gradually introduce the flour mixture, mixing just until combined, and finish off with a gentle fold using a rubber spatula to keep the batter light and airy.

11. Step 11

    Now it’s time to divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans.

12. Step 12

    For a delightful surprise, sprinkle chopped semisweet chocolate over the top of each batter, then take a metal spatula and gently swirl the chocolate into the batter.

13. Step 13

    This will create pockets of melty goodness throughout your cake.

14. Step 14

    Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

15. Step 15

    Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 5 minutes.

16. Step 16

    After that, carefully loosen the sides, invert them onto wire racks, and peel off the parchment paper.

17. Step 17

    Allow the cakes to cool completely, which should take around 30 minutes.

18. Step 18

    While your cakes are cooling, let’s whip up the filling.

19. Step 19

    In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

20. Step 20

    Beat this mixture with an electric mixer, gradually increasing the speed until it becomes creamy and smooth.

21. Step 21

    Set aside two-thirds of this delightful mixture.

22. Step 22

    To the remaining third, add cocoa powder and beat until it’s silky and well combined.

23. Step 23

    In another bowl, whip the heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.

24. Step 24

    Now, fold two-thirds of the whipped cream into the white cream cheese mixture, and then fold the remaining whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture.

25. Step 25

    This will give you a luscious filling that’s both light and rich.

26. Step 26

    Once your cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble.

27. Step 27

    Carefully cut each layer in half horizontally, creating four layers in total.

28. Step 28

    Start with one layer and spread half of the white cream cheese mixture on top, leaving about a quarter-inch from the edge.

29. Step 29

    Sprinkle one-third of the chopped semisweet chocolate over the cream, gently pressing it down to secure it.

30. Step 30

    Add the next layer and spread it with the chocolate cream cheese mixture, topping it with another third of the chopped chocolate.

31. Step 31

    Repeat this process with the third layer, using the remaining white cream cheese mixture and the last of the chocolate.

32. Step 32

    Finally, place the last cake layer on top to complete your masterpiece.

33. Step 33

    To create a glossy glaze, melt bittersweet chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring frequently until it’s smooth and silky.

34. Step 34

    Once melted, remove it from the heat and whisk in powdered sugar and butter until everything is well combined.

35. Step 35

    Pour this luscious glaze over the top of your cake, spreading it evenly across the surface and letting it cascade down the sides.

36. Step 36

    Your cake is now ready to impress! Enjoy every slice of this delightful creation, perfect for any occasion.