Decadent Chocolate Bar Cake with Creamy Butter Frosting

1.Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2.In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate and 200g of butter together over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

4.In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

5.Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6.Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7.While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

8.Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

9.Decorate the cake as desired, perhaps with chocolate shavings or sprinkles. Slice and serve your decadent chocolate bar cake!