Chocolate Smash Cake Extravaganza

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) all-purpose flour
• 200g (7 oz) granulated sugar
• 100g (3.5 oz) cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 240ml (8 fl oz) buttermilk
• 120ml (4 fl oz) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 240ml (8 fl oz) boiling water
• 200g (7 oz) chocolate chips
• 200g (7 oz) heavy cream
• 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
• Assorted candies and sprinkles for filling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 20cm (8-inch) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing continuously until smooth. The batter will be thin.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
9. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of ganache over the top.
10. Create a small well in the center of the cake by cutting out a circle. Fill the well with assorted candies and sprinkles.
11. Place the second cake layer on top, covering the candy-filled well. Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
12. Decorate the cake with additional sprinkles if desired. Allow the ganache to set before serving.

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