Combining the sheer delight of a chocolate cake with the crunchy pleasure of KitKat bars results in a dessert that’s both playful and indulgent. A KitKat chocolate cake is a treat that brings together the richness of cake with the iconic sweetness of KitKat. In this guide, we’ll delve into the art of creating a sweet KitKat chocolate cake that’s not only visually captivating but also a symphony of flavors. From incorporating KitKat into the layers to crafting a delicious frosting, you’ll be well-prepared to craft a cake that’s a celebration of sweetness and creativity.
Ingredients
Before you embark on your sweet baking journey, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 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 pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the KitKat Layers:
- KitKat bars (quantity based on preference)
- KitKat bars (crushed, for decoration)
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 and 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Decoration:
- Crushed KitKat bars
- Chocolate shavings
- Whole KitKat bars
Tools:
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Offset spatula
- Piping bags and tips (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mixing the Tempting Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, ensuring a moist cake.
2. Baking the Cake:
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Preparing the KitKat Layers:
- Take KitKat bars and gently press them into the sides of one cake layer, securing them in place. This will create a border of KitKat bars around the cake.
4. Whipping Up the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
- Pour in the milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract. Add a pinch of salt for balance.
- Beat the mixture on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
5. Assembling and Frosting:
- Once the KitKat layer is in place, place the other cake layer on top.
- Use an offset spatula to apply a thin layer of chocolate frosting all over the cake to create a crumb coat.
- Refrigerate the cake for about 20-30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
6. Applying the Final Frosting Layer:
- Generously spread the remaining chocolate frosting all over the cake using the offset spatula, creating a smooth finish.
7. Decoration and Delight:
- Gently press crushed KitKat bars onto the sides of the frosted cake.
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for added elegance.
- Place whole KitKat bars on the top of the cake, creating a charming arrangement.
Crafting a sweet KitKat chocolate cake is a journey of playful indulgence and culinary creativity. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ve gained the skills to create a cake that’s not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of sweetness and innovation. Whether it’s a birthday, a gathering, or simply a moment to enjoy life’s sweet pleasures, this KitKat chocolate cake promises to become a memorable treat that brings smiles to every taste bud. So, gather your ingredients, let your imagination run wild, and embark on the delightful adventure of crafting a cake that’s a true masterpiece of flavor, texture, and enjoyment.