Introduction
Lydia’s 10-Layer Chocolate Cake is a delicious, rich, and moist dessert that is sure to amaze your family and friends. This classic Southern treat serves as an absolute showstopper at any gathering, combining layers of fluffy chocolate cake with a creamy, decadent frosting. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a simple family dinner, this cake will elevate any occasion.
Ingredients for the Cake
– 400g granulated sugar
– 250g unsalted butter, softened
– 6 large eggs
– 500g all-purpose flour
– 10g baking powder
– 2g salt
– 240ml whole milk
– 5ml vanilla extract
Ingredients for the Chocolate Frosting
– 500g granulated sugar
– 30g unsweetened cocoa powder
– 120ml whole milk
– 250g unsalted butter
– 5ml vanilla extract
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease and line ten 20cm round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Divide batter evenly among the 10 pans and spread evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7. For the frosting, combine sugar, cocoa powder, and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until sugar is dissolved.
8. Add butter and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
9. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting, then repeat with remaining layers, stacking them as you go.
10. Cover the top and sides with remaining frosting. Let sit for 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Enjoy this delightful 10-layer chocolate cake, bringing joy and sweetness to your loved ones!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Prepare ten 20cm round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Sugar and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 400g of granulated sugar and 250g of softened unsalted butter. Beat together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add 6 large eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time. Ensure you mix well after each addition to fully incorporate the eggs.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 500g of all-purpose flour, 10g of baking powder, and 2g of salt to combine the dry ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture. Alternate this with adding 240ml of whole milk. Finally, stir in 5ml of vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
Step 6: Prepare the Cake Pans
Evenly divide the batter among the ten prepared cake pans. Spread the batter evenly in each pan.
Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a layer; it should come out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans.
Step 8: Make the Chocolate Frosting
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 500g of granulated sugar, 30g of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 120ml of whole milk. Stir constantly until the sugar has fully dissolved.
Step 9: Add Butter and Vanilla
Once the sugar mixture is smooth, add 250g of unsalted butter. Continue stirring until fully mixed. Remove from heat and stir in 5ml of vanilla extract.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
On a serving plate, place the first cake layer. Spread a thin layer of chocolate frosting on top. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, stacking them as you go.
Step 11: Frost the Cake
Using the remaining frosting, cover the top and sides of the cake. Allow the cake to sit for 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Notes
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch, serve the cake with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Substitutions
You can use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a finer crumb, and feel free to substitute coconut or almond milk for dairy-free options.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming is a technique that involves beating together softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, leading to a tender cake texture.
Layering
Layering is the method of stacking multiple cake layers with frosting in between. This technique not only enhances the flavor and moisture of the cake but also creates an impressive visual presentation.
Frosting
Frosting is the sweet and creamy layer that coats the outside and fills the inside of the cake. Properly making frosting requires combining sugar, cocoa, milk, and butter and ensuring a smooth consistency for easy spreading.
Alternating Ingredients
When combining wet and dry ingredients, it’s best to alternate between them. This method helps to maintain the emulsion and prevents the batter from becoming overmixed, which can result in a tough cake.
Baking in Multiple Pans
Baking the cake batter in ten separate pans allows for even cooking and a shorter baking time. It’s essential to check for doneness with a toothpick, ensuring all layers are perfectly baked.
FAQ
Can I use a different size pan?
Yes, you can adjust the baking time if you use a different size pan. Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate if you need to keep it longer.
Can I freeze the cake layers?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil, and they can be stored for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for unsalted butter?
You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
How can I make the frosting thicker?
If your frosting is too thin, you can add more powdered sugar (not granulated) until you reach your desired thickness.
Conclusion
This 10-layer chocolate cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to your baking skills. Its rich, moist texture and decadent chocolate frosting will leave your family and friends in awe, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion. Don’t hesitate to dive into this classic Southern treat that is sure to create lasting memories.
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