Galentine's Chocolate Delight Cake

Name: Galentine's Chocolate Delight Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Seasonal Celebration Recipes

I love celebrating Galentine's Day with my friends, and nothing says celebration quite like a decadent chocolate cake. This Galentine's Chocolate Delight Cake has become my go-to recipe for indulging in sweetness with my favorite girls. With its rich chocolate layers and velvety frosting, every bite is like a warm hug. It's easy to make, and I can customize it with fun toppings to suit everyone’s taste. Trust me, you’ll want this cake to be the star of your Galentine's gathering!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:22:29.371Z

When I first experimented with this chocolate cake, I wanted something that truly felt luxurious and indulgent. The result was a moist chocolate sponge cake layered with creamy chocolate ganache. Each time I baked it, friends would rave about the rich flavor, and it quickly became a birthday favorite.

The secret ingredient? A touch of espresso powder that enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully. I love to serve it with a side of fresh berries for a pop of acidity, which balances the sweetness perfectly. I hope you enjoy this cake as much as we do!

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Decadent layers of rich chocolate cake that melt in your mouth
Easy-to-follow steps make this cake perfect for any skill level
Fun and customizable toppings to celebrate your best friends

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality cocoa powder is essential for achieving that deep chocolate flavor in your cake. I prefer using Dutch-processed cocoa because it provides a richer color and a smoother taste compared to natural cocoa. Look for brands that list '100% cocoa' to avoid any mixed additives that could affect the flavor profile.

Equally important is the buttermilk. It not only adds moisture but also reacts with the baking soda to create a tender crumb. If you’re out of buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before using it in the batter.

Perfecting the Cake Baking Process

When baking the layers, it’s crucial not to open the oven door too early, as this can cause the cakes to collapse. Aim to check them at around the 25-minute mark, and if they’re still wobbly in the center, give them a few extra minutes. You'll know they’re done when they spring back lightly under your touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs.

Cooling the cakes properly is also key to a successful assembly. After baking, let them cool in the pans for no more than 10 minutes. If they sit too long, they may become soggy. Use a flat spatula to carefully loosen the edges before inverting them onto wire racks. This helps maintain their structure and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon espresso powder

Chocolate Ganache Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, mix buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until just combined. Stir in boiling water and espresso powder until smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Ganache

While the cakes are cooling, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to boil. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes before stirring in the vanilla until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of ganache on top, then place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache. Decorate as desired.

Enjoy with your favorite friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle flaked sea salt on top of the ganache before it sets for a delightful sweet-savory contrast.

Storing Leftover Cake

If you have leftover Galentine's Chocolate Delight Cake, storing it properly will keep it fresh for a few days. I recommend wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. This will help prevent the cake from drying out and keep the ganache from hardening.

You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment. Wrap them securely and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake will last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or place it in the fridge overnight.

Creative Topping Ideas

Consider customizing your ganache topping with flavored extracts or liqueurs to suit everyone’s taste. Adding orange zest or a splash of peppermint extract can bring an exciting twist to the classic chocolate experience. You can also drizzle different colored chocolate over the top for a fun aesthetic.

For a textural contrast, topping the cake with crunchy elements can enhance the overall enjoyment. Try crushed nuts, toffee bits, or even sprinkles to add a festive flair suitable for Galentine's Day. This makes each slice visually appealing and adds a delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, but keep in mind that it may change the texture and flavor slightly. All-purpose flour gives the best results.

→ How long can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

→ What other frosting can I use?

You can try cream cheese frosting or whipped cream for a lighter option.