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1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans and dust with 1 tablespoon cocoa.
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2
In a heavy saucepan over low heat, combine 1 1/4 cups butter, 1 cup stout beer, 4 ounces dark chocolate, and superfine sugar. Heat, stirring occasionally, until chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove saucepan from heat and cool slightly.
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3
Beat eggs and creme fraiche together in a large mixing bowl; gradually stir in the flour and baking soda. Add the melted chocolate mixture in small additions, beating well after each addition. Pour half the batter into each prepared cake pan.
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4
Bake in the preheated oven until the top of the cake bounces back when touched lightly with a finger, about 40 minutes. Cool the cakes on racks.
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5
To make the icing, place 1/2 cup butter, 4 ounces dark chocolate, and 5 tablespoons stout beer in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate has melted. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
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6
In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, 1/3 cup cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until combined. Stir in 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar. Pour in the cooled chocolate-stout mixture and beat well. Gradually add remaining confectioners' sugar until icing reaches the desired thickness.
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7
Place 1 cake on a serving plate and smooth about 1/3 of the icing over the top. Place the second cake onto the frosted layer, and spread remaining 2/3 of the icing over the top and sides of the cake.
