Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (choose your favorite brand)
- 3 large eggs (or as directed on the cake mix package)
- 1 cup water (or as directed on the cake mix package)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or as directed on the cake mix package)
- 1 cup Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 1 package (3.9 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup Nestlé Toll House milk chocolate chips, melted
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups Nestlé Toll House dark chocolate morsels
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Additional chocolate chips or shavings
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions, then fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the melted milk chocolate chips until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over the dark chocolate morsels in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and let the frosting cool slightly to thicken.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the top.
- Add the second cake layer on top and press gently to secure.
- Pour the chocolate frosting over the cake, spreading it evenly over the top and sides.
- Decorate and Serve:
- Garnish with additional chocolate chips, shavings, whipped cream, or chopped nuts if desired.
- Let the cake chill for 20-30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing.
Tips:
- For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Use mini chocolate chips in the batter for more even distribution.