Chocolate Cheesecake Cake

Ingredients:

For the chocolate cake layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water

For the cheesecake layer:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
2. To make the chocolate cake layers, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Slowly pour in the hot water and mix until the batter is smooth.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
7. To make the cheesecake layer, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
8. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
9. Stir in the vanilla extract.
10. Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the chocolate cake batter in the cake pans.
11. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before removing them.
13. To make the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil.
14. Remove the cream from the heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and butter until smooth.
15. Let the ganache cool for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
16. Place one of the chocolate cake layers on a cake plate and spread a thin layer of the chocolate ganache on top.
17. Place the second chocolate cake layer on top and spread a thin layer of the chocolate ganache on top.
18. Place the cheesecake layer on top of the second chocolate cake layer.
19. Spread the remaining chocolate ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
20. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious chocolate cheesecake cake!