Pastel de Chocolate Delicioso (Delicious Chocolate Cake)
Introduction:
Pastel de chocolate delicioso is a rich, moist, and decadent chocolate cake that is a favorite for any chocolate lover.
With a fluffy texture and deep, chocolatey flavor, this cake can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of frostings, fruits, or whipped cream.
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you want to indulge in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) boiling water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)
For the Chocolate Ganache (optional but recommended):
200g dark chocolate (or semi-sweet chocolate)
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter (optional for added gloss)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line them with parchment paper).
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Add the Wet Ingredients:
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
Mix together until smooth and well combined.
Incorporate the Boiling Water: Gradually add the boiling water (or hot coffee) to the batter. The batter will be quite thin, but that’s exactly how it should be.
Stir gently until the mixture is smooth.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes:
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Ganache (optional): While the cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache. In a heatproof bowl, heat the heavy cream until it’s just about to boil. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add butter for extra gloss if desired.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of ganache over the top, then place the second layer of cake on top. Pour the remaining ganache over the entire cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Description:
Pastel de chocolate delicioso is a classic chocolate cake that features a deeply rich flavor thanks to the cocoa powder and the optional hot coffee. The texture is wonderfully soft and moist, making each bite a decadent experience. The chocolate ganache on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, creating a perfect balance between cake and frosting. This cake is incredibly versatile — it can be served plain or dressed up with fruits, nuts, or whipped cream.
Tips:
Moisture Boost: For an extra-moist cake, you can substitute half of the milk with sour cream or buttermilk.
Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or chili powder to the dry ingredients for a spiced chocolate version.
Coffee Flavor: Using coffee instead of water enhances the chocolate flavor and makes the cake richer. If you prefer a non-caffeinated version, plain hot water works just fine.
Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.
Variations:
Chocolate Chip Cake: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a more chocolatey texture.
Fruit Addition: Top the cake with fresh berries, bananas, or cherries for a fruity twist that complements the richness of the chocolate.
Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use non-dairy milk (such as almond milk) and oil instead of butter.
Frosting Alternative: Instead of ganache, use a buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, or even whipped cream.
Corrections:
Ensure the baking soda and baking powder are fresh for the best rise.
Make sure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting or the ganache will melt.
Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your Pastel de Chocolate Delicioso. Whether you serve it as a simple afternoon treat or at a grand celebration, this cake will be a hit. Share it with loved ones or savor it with a cup of coffee — either way, it’s a slice of chocolate heaven!