Mirror Glaze Chocolate Cake is an elegant dessert that features a rich chocolate cake covered in a glossy, reflective glaze. This show-stopping cake is perfect for special occasions and celebrations, combining layers of moist chocolate cake with a luscious filling and a stunning mirror glaze.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 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 whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Ganache Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)

For the Mirror Glaze:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 1/2 teaspoons gelatin powder (or 1 packet)
• 6 tablespoons cold water (for blooming gelatin)

Timing

Making Mirror Glaze Chocolate Cake takes about 30 minutes for preparation, 30-35 minutes for baking, and additional time for cooling and glazing.

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Melt Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Level Cakes: Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary.
2. Fill Cake: Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate ganache over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache. Smooth it out with a spatula.

Step 4: Prepare the Mirror Glaze

1. Bloom Gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, sweetened condensed milk, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and cocoa are dissolved.
3. Add Gelatin: Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until fully dissolved. Let the glaze cool to about 90°F (32°C) before using.

Step 5: Glaze the Cake

1. Glaze the Cake: Place the cake on a wire rack over a baking sheet to catch excess glaze. Pour the mirror glaze over the center of the cake, allowing it to flow down the sides. Use a spatula to help spread it evenly if needed.
2. Set: Let the glaze set for about 10-15 minutes before transferring the cake to a serving platter.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish: Optionally, garnish the top with chocolate shavings or fresh berries.
2. Enjoy: Slice and serve your stunning mirror glaze chocolate cake!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Mirror Glaze Chocolate Cake (per slice, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	6g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	30g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add espresso powder to the cake batter for a mocha flavor or use flavored extracts like almond or orange.
• Decorations: Decorate the top with fresh fruits, edible flowers, or nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
• Different Fillings: Experiment with different fillings such as fruit preserves or whipped cream for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Mirror Glaze Chocolate Cake is a decadent and visually stunning dessert that is sure to impress your guests. With its rich chocolate flavor and glossy finish, this cake is perfect for celebrations or special occasions. Enjoy this delightful recipe!