Shotts Fudgy Chocolate Layer Cake

Step 1

MAKE THE CAKE: Preheat the oven to 325°. Line bottoms of three 8" round pans with rounds of parchment paper. Spray pans and paper with vegetable cooking spray.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Step 3

In a small mixing bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs and vanilla.

Step 4

In another small bowl or glass measuring cup, melt the butter in the hot coffee.

Step 5

Using an electric hand mixer, beat half of the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients at low speed. Beat in half of the coffee mixture, scrape down the bowl. Beat in the remaining buttermilk and coffee mixtures.

Step 6

Pour the batter evenly into the pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cakes are springy to the touch. Rotate pans halfway through baking. Let the cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto a rack to cool completely. Peel off the parchment.

Step 7

MEANWHILE, MAKE THE FILLING AND FROSTING: Add chocolate to a large bowl. In a small saucepan, bring the cream and corn syrup to a boil. Immediately pour over chocolate and let stand in a warm place for 5 minutes.

Step 8

Gently whisk the ganache until smooth. Whisk in butter until incorporated. Refrigerate, stirring frequently, until the ganache is thick enough to spread, about 30 minutes.

Step 9

In a microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup, combine the sugar with the water and heat for 30 seconds; stir to dissolve.

Step 10

Set a cake layer on a cake plate or cake cardboard and brush lightly with the sugar syrup. Spread about 3/4 cup of the frosting onto the cake in an even 1/4" layer. Repeat with remaining layers, while stacking. Spread the remaining frosting around the sides of the cake.

Step 11

Let the cake stand at room temperature for an 1 hour or more before slicing.