CHOCOLATE BOURBON CAKE

Chocolate Bourbon Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that blends the deep flavors of dark chocolate with the warm, oaky notes of bourbon. This decadent cake has a moist, dense crumb, enhanced by the addition of bourbon, which not only amplifies the chocolate’s richness but also adds a sophisticated touch. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or simply treating yourself, the combination of chocolate and bourbon makes this cake a memorable dessert. Finished with a glossy chocolate glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s perfect for anyone who loves a bold, flavorful cake with a hint of boozy warmth.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 4 oz dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• For the Glaze (optional):
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add Bourbon and Chocolate: Mix in the melted dark chocolate and bourbon until smooth.
6. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Glaze (Optional): While the cake is cooling, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, stirring until smooth. Stir in the bourbon and let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled cake.
9. Serve: Slice and serve your Chocolate Bourbon Cake as is, or with a drizzle of the chocolate bourbon glaze for an extra indulgent treat.

This Chocolate Bourbon Cake offers a perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and smooth bourbon warmth, making it an irresistible dessert for any chocolate lover!