Holidays Chocolate Cake Dessert

If you need a showstopping dessert that makes the whole house smell like the holidays this rich chocolate cake is just the thing. Delightfully tender layers are enveloped in glossy chocolate ganache for the kind of cake that turns an everyday gathering into a celebration. Whether it is Christmas New Year or any wintry occasion this recipe is my go-to for chocolate lovers of all ages.

I still remember the first time I baked this cake for our holiday table. Everyone was so excited to see layers of chocolate and ganache especially when cut into slices. Now it is a family tradition and the kids always ask who gets the last piece.

Gather Your Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: gives the cake its structure and a tender crumb use a high-quality brand for best texture
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the batter and helps it stay moist look for fine crystals
• Baking soda and baking powder: provide lift and softness always check freshness for dependable rise
• Salt: enhances the flavors and balances the rich chocolate be sure to use fine salt for even mixing
• Buttermilk: brings tang and moisture for that irresistible plush texture whole buttermilk is best
• Vegetable oil: creates a soft springy crumb choose a neutral oil with a light flavor
• Large eggs: bind the mixture and add richness farm-fresh eggs will give you deeper color
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the cake’s aroma and adds warmth pure extract is worth it for special cakes
• Hot coffee: deepens the chocolate notes in the cake use just-brewed strong coffee for best result
• Heavy cream: makes the ganache ultra smooth choose a full-fat cream for shine and richness
• Dark chocolate: delivers a grown-up chocolate experience pick a high-quality bar and chop it yourself
• Unsalted butter: gives extra silkiness to the ganache European butter is perfect for holidays

How to Make It

Prepare the pans:

Grease and line three eight-inch cake pans with parchment paper then lightly flour them for easy removal after baking

Mix the dry ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk together flour sugar cocoa powder baking soda baking powder and salt be sure to break up any clumps for a smooth batter

Combine the wet ingredients:

Add buttermilk oil eggs and vanilla to the bowl mix until the batter just comes together avoid over-mixing for a tender cake

Add the coffee:

Slowly stir in hot coffee the batter will be thin at this stage but that is the secret to a moist crumb

Bake the cakes:

Divide batter evenly between your prepared pans and smooth the tops tap gently on the counter bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for thirty to thirty-five minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean

Cool the cakes:

Let baked layers rest in their pans for ten minutes before turning onto a wire rack to finish cooling this prevents sticking and makes frosting easier

Make the ganache:

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling pour over chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl let sit two minutes for the chocolate to soften

Finish the ganache:

Stir chocolate cream mixture gently until completely smooth and glossy then add the butter and stir until melted for added shine let the ganache cool until it thickens slightly for easier spreading

Assemble the cake:

Spread a generous layer of ganache between each cake layer then cover the top and sides smoothing with an offset spatula try to work in a cool room for best results

Decorate:

Add festive holly leaves sugared cranberries or gold decorations as you like finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for that magical snowy look your cake is ready for any celebration

I always think of my grandmother’s kitchen when I melt chocolate for the ganache. The aroma brings back memories of us decorating cakes together for every special event. My favorite part is swirling the ganache until it shines just right.

Flavor Boosters

Once completely cooled store leftover cake covered at cool room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage wrap slices individually and refrigerate up to five days. Gently bring cold cake to room temp before serving to regain the perfect crumb.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is a showstopper on its own but you can dress it up even more with a holiday platter edible gold sprinkles or a scattering of fresh berries. Serve with mugs of spiced chai or classic hot cocoa for a wintry pairing kids love to help add decorations. For a festive touch place sprigs of rosemary for a tree-like look.

Creative Twists

No buttermilk on hand Make your own by mixing a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with just enough milk to make one cup and let it sit five minutes. Out of eggs For each egg use a quarter cup of applesauce or plain Greek yogurt in a pinch. If you prefer milk instead of coffee the cake will still be delicious but with a lighter chocolate note.

Over the years countless friends have requested this recipe after tasting it at our winter parties. Kids often volunteer to help sift cocoa or stir the ganache and adults appreciate how the cake’s deep flavor never overwhelms. Even my picky eaters have asked for seconds at every gathering. Some families tell me they now bake it every December as their own annual holiday tradition.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How do I achieve a moist chocolate cake?

Using ingredients like buttermilk and hot coffee in the batter helps keep the cake tender and rich, while ensuring it doesn't dry out during baking.

→ Why use hot coffee in the batter?

Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor and aids in dissolving cocoa powder, creating a deep, luscious taste and soft crumb.

→ How should I apply the chocolate ganache?

Spread ganache evenly between layers and over the top and sides while it's slightly cooled but still manageable for a smooth, shiny finish.

→ What are some festive garnish ideas?

Decorate with holly leaves, sugared cranberries, gold edible decorations, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a seasonal touch.

→ Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cake layers can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered. Assemble and garnish before serving for best results.