Dark Chocolate Coffee Cake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cake

01 - 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 cups sugar
03 - 3/4 cup cocoa powder
04 - 2 teaspoons baking soda
05 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 2 eggs
08 - 1 cup strong coffee
09 - 1 cup buttermilk
10 - 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
11 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

→ Buttercream Frosting

12 - 4 sticks butter
13 - 5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
14 - 1/2 cup strong coffee, cooled
15 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 - 1 tablespoon espresso powder

→ Chocolate Ganache

17 - 1 cup dark chocolate chips
18 - 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
19 - 3 Heath Candy Bars, roughly chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare 8-inch cake pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper or greasing and flouring them.
02 - In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
03 - Add eggs, coffee, buttermilk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
04 - Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Tap the pans gently on a countertop to release air bubbles. Bake for 20 minutes, rotate the pans, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
05 - Let the cake pans cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes. Remove the cakes from the pans and allow them to cool completely.
06 - Whip the butter in a mixer for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, coffee, and vanilla. Add espresso powder and mix well.
07 - Combine dark chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and melted. Allow to cool to room temperature to thicken.
08 - Ensure all cake layers are flat and even. Place the first layer on a cake stand or board. Spread buttercream generously on top, then repeat with the next layers. Smooth the final buttercream layer for an even surface.
09 - Spoon ganache onto the top of the cake, allowing it to spread naturally and slightly drip down the sides. Top with chopped Heath candy bars. Let set and admire.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure cakes are completely cool before assembling to prevent buttercream from melting.