Baking Hear Me Out Cake
Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss
Baking Hear Me Out Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, perfect for any occasion.
This cake is not just a dessert; it's a conversation starter! With its rich layers and inviting aroma, it brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Cake
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Symphony of Flavors
The Hear Me Out Cake is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and bright citrus notes. The addition of fresh orange zest elevates the traditional chocolate cake to new heights, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. This unique combination ensures every bite is an indulgent experience, making it an instant favorite among family and friends.
Chocolate lovers will appreciate the depth of flavor provided by the unsweetened cocoa powder, while the orange zest adds a refreshing twist that balances the richness. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that invites everyone to gather around the table and share in the joy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself to something special, the Hear Me Out Cake fits the bill perfectly. Its moist texture and decadent frosting make it a standout dessert that can be dressed up with elegant decorations or enjoyed simply as is.
This cake also serves well at potlucks and family reunions, where it’s sure to impress guests of all ages. With its rich flavor and stunning presentation, it’s bound to become a beloved recipe that you’ll return to time and again.
Baking Tips and Tricks
For the best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps create a smoother batter and promotes even baking. Also, when measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy. Too much flour can lead to a dense cake, while too little can make it fall flat.
Don’t skip the boiling water in the batter; it intensifies the chocolate flavor and contributes to the cake's moistness. Lastly, be sure to let your cake cool completely before frosting. This not only helps the frosting to stay intact but also enhances the overall texture and flavor of the cake.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make the Baking Hear Me Out Cake:
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Baking Hear Me Out Cake:
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Add salt, vanilla, and heavy cream, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Baking Hear Me Out Cake!
Serving Suggestions
The Hear Me Out Cake is versatile in how it can be served. For a classic presentation, enjoy it as is, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, also make a delightful accompaniment, adding a touch of natural sweetness and color to your dessert plate.
For a more sophisticated touch, consider dusting the top of the frosted cake with cocoa powder or grated chocolate. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate experience with each bite.
Storage and Shelf Life
After baking, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresher for longer, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly. To retain its moistness, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator.
If you need to store the cake for an extended period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When properly stored, the cake can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best results.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with the Hear Me Out Cake by experimenting with flavors. You can substitute the orange zest with lemon or lime for a citrus twist, or even add a splash of espresso to enhance the chocolate flavor. For those who enjoy nuts, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.
You can also switch up the frosting by using cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast or a ganache for an ultra-chocolaty experience. The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use applesauce or a commercial egg replacer as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.
Baking Hear Me Out Cake
Baking Hear Me Out Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Gourmet Baking Bliss
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Add salt, vanilla, and heavy cream, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g