Chocolate Cake Decorating

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 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 vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For Decorating:

• Chocolate ganache
• Fondant (colored as desired)
• Edible decorations (sprinkles, edible flowers, etc.)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare Chocolate Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Stir in boiling water. Pour the batter into greased and floured cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
2. Crumb Coat: Once cooled, apply a thin layer of chocolate ganache as a crumb coat to the cake. This helps to seal in crumbs for a smooth final layer.
3. Fondant Layer: Roll out fondant to the desired thickness and cover the cake evenly. Smooth the fondant with a fondant smoother to eliminate wrinkles.
4. Ganache Drizzle: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the fondant-covered cake for a glossy finish. Let it set.
5. Decorate Creatively: Let your creativity shine by adding edible decorations, using various colors of fondant, or creating intricate designs. Consider using piping bags for detailed work.
6. Optional Whipped Cream: For added flair, pipe whipped cream along the edges or as decorative swirls.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once decorated, the Chocolate Cake becomes a stunning centerpiece. Slice, serve, and savor the delightful combination of visual and culinary pleasures.

Calories per serving (approximate): 300 kcal

Note: Adjust the decorations based on the occasion and personal preferences.