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. Prepare the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the hot water to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
5. 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.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut it into thin slices.

2. Prepare the Cream Layers:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. If using mascarpone cheese, gently fold it into the whipped cream until well combined.

3. Assemble the Dessert:

1. In a large, clear serving dish, place a layer of chocolate cake slices at the bottom.
2. Spread a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the cake slices.
3. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.

4. Add the Finishing Touch:

1. Sprinkle the top layer with chocolate shavings or grated chocolate.

5. Chill and Serve:

1. Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
2. Enjoy your delicious layered chocolate and cream dessert!