Decadent Hershey’s Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

Introduction

Indulge in the richness of Hershey’s chocolate and the tanginess of cream cheese with this decadent cake recipe. Perfect for special occasions or satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is surprisingly easy to make using everyday ingredients. The combination of moist chocolate cake layers and a creamy cheese filling will elevate your baking skills and impress your family and friends. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• The use of Hershey’s chocolate ensures a deep, rich flavor that chocolate lovers will adore, and it’s easily accessible in most grocery stores.
• The cream cheese filling adds a delightful tanginess and a creamy texture that complements the chocolate perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.
• The recipe is designed to be easy to follow and prepare, requiring minimal special equipment or advanced baking techniques, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup Hershey’s milk chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• For the cream cheese filling: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, allowing each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next. Beat in the vanilla extract. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the heavy cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
4. Step 4: Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly, then fold it into the cake batter until well combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
5. Step 5: 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 them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Step 6: For the cream cheese filling, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
7. Step 7: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread the cream cheese filling on top. Place the second cake layer on top and dust with powdered sugar.

Handy Tips

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
• For the cream cheese filling, make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

Heat Control

When baking the cakes, it’s crucial to maintain the oven temperature at 350°F (180°C) for even cooking. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and they should be lightly golden on the tops and edges.

Crunch Factor

This cake is designed to be moist and tender, with the cream cheese filling adding a creamy texture. To maintain moisture, avoid overbaking, and ensure the cakes are stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated if not serving immediately.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
• Don’t open the oven door during the baking time, as this can cause the cakes to sink or not cook evenly.
• For a glossy finish on the cream cheese filling, beat it until it’s very smooth and creamy, then refrigerate it for about 10 minutes before spreading on the cake.

Storage Tips

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Refrigerate the cake if you live in a warm climate or if you won’t be serving it within a day.
• When freezing, it’s best to freeze the cake layers and the cream cheese filling separately for easier assembly later.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This cake makes a wonderful gift for any chocolate lover. Consider placing the cake on a decorative plate or cake stand, then wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Add a ribbon around the plate or a gift card with a personal message for a thoughtful touch. If you’re gifting the cake to someone who will be traveling with it, consider using a cake box or a sturdy container to keep it safe.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different extracts like almond or coconut to the cake batter for unique flavors.
• Use dark or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a different twist.
• Add nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If your cakes turn out too dense, check that you didn’t overmix the batter and that your leavening agents (baking powder) are fresh.
• If the cream cheese filling is too runny, refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up before using.
• If you notice the cakes starting to brown too quickly, cover the tops with foil to prevent overbrowning.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake layers and the cream cheese filling separately for up to 2 months.
• Is this cake gluten-free? No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just ensure you have enough pans and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

With its decadent chocolate flavor and creamy cream cheese filling, this cake is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and decorations to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification on any step. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of your Decadent Hershey’s Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling!