1. Bake the Cake:
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Incorporate Boiling Water: Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin) to ensure the cake is moist.
- Bake: Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove from oven and allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare Marshmallow Filling:
- Mix Ingredients: Beat marshmallow creme and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Make Chocolate Frosting:
- Combine Ingredients: Beat butter until creamy. Add cocoa powder and incorporate the confectioners’ sugar gradually, alternating with milk to reach desired consistency. Add vanilla and beat until smooth and spreadable.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Layer Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the marshmallow filling evenly over the top. Add the second cake layer.
- Frost Cake: Apply a thin crumb coat of chocolate frosting over the entire cake. Chill for 10 minutes, then apply the final thick layer of frosting smoothly.
- Decorate: Garnish with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips or shavings on top for a decadent finish.
5. Serve:
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour to set the frosting and filling before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Cake Moisture: Adding boiling water to the batter helps bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor and keeping the cake moist.
- Smooth Frosting: Ensure all frosting ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother, easier spread.
- Layer Evenness: If the cake layers dome during baking, trim them flat with a serrated knife for even stacking.
Southern Decadence Chocolate Marshmallow Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or indulging in a luxurious treat. Its combination of soft chocolate layers with creamy marshmallow and rich chocolate frosting will make it a favorite for all who try it. Enjoy crafting this spectacular cake!