Layered Chocolate Dream Cake: A Decadent Chocolate Lover’s Paradise

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined.
Gradually pour in the boiling water, mixing until the batter is smooth (it will be thin, but that’s okay).
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Chocolate Mousse Filling:

Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to melt the chocolate.
Stir the mixture until smooth and fully combined. Let it cool to room temperature.
Once the chocolate mixture has cooled, beat it with an electric mixer on medium speed until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the mousse is fluffy and holds its shape.
Make the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until the cream just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly to thicken.
Assemble the Cake:

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand.
Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the top of the first cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently to secure it in place.
Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly across the top, if needed.
Serve:

Let the cake set for 30 minutes to allow the ganache to firm up before slicing.
Slice the cake and serve with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips