Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F. Line three 9-inch round baking pans with parchment paper and grease and flour the pans.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and baking powder. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, beating well after each addition.

4. 4

   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

5. 5

   For the frosting, melt the chocolate chips and cubed butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let cool for 5 minutes. Stir in the sour cream, then gradually beat in the confectioners' sugar until smooth and creamy.

6. 6

   Spread the frosting between the cake layers and all over the top and sides of the cake. Top with chocolate curls, if desired. Refrigerate any leftover cake.