Chocolate Grid Cake

A rich and decadent chocolate cake layered with creamy frosting and topped with a beautiful grid pattern, perfect for any celebration or sweet craving.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Decoration:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup chocolate ganache or melted chocolate for the grid pattern.

Directions:

Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until well combined (the batter will be thin).

Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Decorate the Cake: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the cake. Drizzle the chocolate ganache or melted chocolate in a grid pattern over the whipped cream for decoration.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve to your guests, enjoying the rich chocolate flavor and beautiful presentation!

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Baking Time: 30-35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour