**Introduction**
Indulge your sweet tooth with this Decadent Cinnamon Chocolate Cake, a delightful dessert that balances the rich flavors of chocolate with the warm, aromatic essence of cinnamon. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is not only visually stunning but also a treat for the palate, making it an ideal centerpiece for celebrations or a comforting ending to a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of moist chocolate layers and heavenly cinnamon frosting ensures that each bite is a delicious experience.
**Ingredients**
For the Cake:
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– A pinch of salt
For Garnish (optional):
– Dark chocolate shavings
– A sprinkle of ground cinnamon
**Instructions**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to combine all dry ingredients.
3. Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, which is normal.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cinnamon frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating slowly to incorporate it until fluffy. Add in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, then beat on high for 1-2 minutes until light and creamy.
10. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cinnamon frosting on top.
11. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
12. For a finishing touch, garnish with dark chocolate shavings and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
**Tips**
– Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
– If you want a stronger cinnamon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of cinnamon to the frosting.
– You can also replace part of the milk with brewed coffee for a deeper flavor.
– If you prefer a layered cake with filling, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or fruit preserves between the cake layers.
**Serving Suggestions**
Serve this decadent cake at room temperature, sliced into generous pieces. Accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a perfect beverage pairing, consider serving it with a rich cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a dessert wine to complement the chocolate and cinnamon flavors. This cake is sure to impress at gatherings, making it a beloved addition to any dessert table.
#decadentdessert #chocolatecake #cinnamonspice