Classic chocolate custard cake

Ingredients:

• For the Chocolate Cake:
  • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 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 vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
• For the Custard:
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Chocolate Ganache:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Instructions:

1. Bake the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the flour mixture and beat until well combined. Carefully stir in boiling water (batter will be thin).
   • Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Custard:
   • In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and cocoa powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and boils. Remove from heat.
   • In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually temper the yolks by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture, then pour the yolk mixture back into the pan.
   • Return to heat and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract. Let cool completely, then chill in the fridge.
3. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
   • Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, letting it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread the custard evenly over the top. Add the second layer of cake.
   • Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, spreading with a spatula to cover completely.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to set the ganache and custard layers. Serve chilled.

Nutritional Analysis and Health Benefits:

• Calories: Each serving is high in calories due to sugar, chocolate, and cream.
• Proteins: Moderate protein content from milk, eggs, and cream.
• Carbohydrates: High in carbohydrates from sugar and flour, providing energy.
• Fats: Contains a significant amount of fats from cream, chocolate, and oil, contributing to the cake’s rich texture.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides calcium from milk and antioxidants from cocoa.

Health Impact:

• Energy Levels: High in sugar and fats, providing a quick energy boost.
• Bone Health: The calcium in milk and cream supports bone health.
• Heart Health: High in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation, especially by those monitoring their cardiovascular health.
• Mood Enhancement: Chocolate is known for its ability to boost serotonin levels, contributing to improved mood.

This Classic Chocolate Custard Cake is a decadent dessert perfect for celebrations and special occasions. While it is rich in flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and sugar content. Enjoy this luxurious treat when you’re looking to indulge in something special.