Indulge in the decadent delight of a Tuxedo Cake, a sophisticated dessert that combines rich layers of chocolate and vanilla flavors for an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a luxurious treat, the Tuxedo Cake is sure to impress with its elegant appearance and irresistible taste.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own masterpiece, complete with luscious chocolate ganache and creamy vanilla buttercream frosting.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Vanilla Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Cake Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, tapping out any excess flour.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth.
3. Prepare the Vanilla Cake Batter:
Repeat the same steps as the chocolate cake batter, using the ingredients listed for the vanilla cake layers.
4. Bake the Cakes:
Divide the chocolate and vanilla cake batters evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
5. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
6. Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk or cream. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until light and fluffy. If needed, add additional milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
7. Assemble the Cake:
Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache over the top. Top with a vanilla cake layer and spread a layer of vanilla buttercream frosting over the top. Repeat with the remaining cake layers, alternating between chocolate ganache and vanilla buttercream frosting. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
8. Decorate the Cake:
For a decorative touch, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to pipe rosettes or swirls of frosting around the top edge of the cake. Alternatively, you can garnish the cake with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or edible flowers.
9. Chill and Serve:
Once assembled, chill the Tuxedo Cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the frosting to set. Serve slices of the chilled cake and enjoy the luxurious combination of chocolate and vanilla flavors.
Conclusion
The Tuxedo Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion or celebration. With its layers of moist chocolate and vanilla cake, decadent chocolate ganache, and creamy vanilla buttercream frosting, it’s sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests. Follow this recipe to create your own masterpiece and treat yourself to a slice of pure indulgence.
