-
1
Position an oven rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
-
2
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
-
3
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
-
4
Add the cooled chocolate and vanilla and beat for 3 minutes to incorporate.
-
5
Beat in the eggs one at a time.
-
6
Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beat for another 3 minutes.
-
7
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the cold water.
-
8
Beat for 1 minute after each addition to incorporate the ingredients.
-
9
Mix until the batter is smooth.
-
10
Coat two 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick cooking spray.
-
11
Cut 2 circles of parchment paper to fit the pan bottoms and place them inside the pans; then spray the paper for added non-stick insurance.
-
12
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the surface with a spatula; the pans should be two-thirds full.
-
13
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
-
14
The cake is cooked when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake springs back when touched.
-
15
Leave to cool for 40 minutes.
-
16
Turn the cakes out of the pans and remove the paper.
-
17
Drizzle them with a few tablespoons of raspberry liqueur.
-
18
With a metal spatula, spread 1/2 cup Chocolate Chip Buttercream on top of one of the layers.
-
19
Start in the center and work your way out.
-
20
Carefully place the second layer on top.
-
21
Smooth the sides with buttercream, and then spread the rest over the top so that the cake is completely covered.
-
22
Refrigerate for 5 minutes before decorating or cutting.
-
23
With a large knife, scrape some shavings from a block of dark chocolate.
-
24
Scatter the shavings over the cake.
-
25
3 cups powdered sugar
-
26
7 tablespoons hot water
-
27
4 ounces dark chocolate, melted and cooled
-
28
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
29
1/2 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
-
30
1/4 cup semisweet dark chocolate, finely chopped
-
31
In the bowl of an electric mixer, dissolve the powdered sugar and water at low speed.
-
32
Beat in the dark chocolate and vanilla.
-
33
Add the butter gradually in small bits.
-
34
Mix until everything is completely incorporated.
-
35
Using a spatula, fold in the chopped chocolate and give a final quick spin.