Description

Indulging in a slice of Old-Fashioned Swiss Chocolate Cake is like taking a step back into a time when baking was an art passed down through generations. This classic dessert embodies the rich, velvety essence of Swiss chocolate, offering a moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake brings a touch of elegance and nostalgia to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 large eggs
• 1½ cups evaporated milk (12-ounce can)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate, melted and cooled
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Substitution Suggestions:
• For a richer flavor, substitute evaporated milk with whole milk or buttermilk.
• Replace unsweetened baking chocolate with ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder mixed with ⅓ cup vegetable oil.
• For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Preparation Method

Preparing the Batter: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal of the cakes after baking.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air, contributing to the cake's tender texture.

Add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth and homogeneous batter. Next, pour in the melted and cooled unsweetened chocolate, blending thoroughly until the chocolate is fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The addition of cornstarch mimics cake flour, resulting in a finer crumb.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the evaporated milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until each addition is incorporated. This method helps maintain a smooth batter and prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Baking the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in their pans for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This cooling period prevents the frosting from melting upon application.

Frosting Suggestions:
While this Old-Fashioned Swiss Chocolate Cake is delightful on its own, pairing it with a complementary frosting can elevate its flavor profile. Consider the following options:

Classic Chocolate Buttercream: Cream together ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Spread evenly over the cooled cake layers.

Whipped Cream Frosting: Whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This light and airy frosting adds a delicate touch to the rich cake.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat together 8 ounces softened cream cheese, ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 4 cups powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until creamy. This tangy frosting pairs well with the sweet chocolate cake.

Tips and Conclusion

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the batter along with the dry ingredients. The coffee enhances the chocolate notes without imparting a distinct coffee taste.

Baking this Old-Fashioned Swiss Chocolate Cake is more than just creating a dessert; it's about embracing a tradition that brings joy and comfort. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and tender cake, making it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration.

If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more of our classic desserts like the Decadent German Chocolate Cake or the Timeless Vanilla Sponge Cake. Share your baking experiences with friends and family, and don't forget to check out our other recipes to continue your culinary journey.