Chocolate Cake Layers

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – sifted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – preferably Dutch-process
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs – room temperature
• 1 cup hot coffee – or hot water
• 1 cup buttermilk – or milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – pure

Raspberry Filling

• 2 cups fresh raspberries – or frozen, thawed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – thickens filling
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – fresh
• 1 pinch salt – enhances flavor

Chocolate Ganache

• 12 oz dark chocolate – chopped
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter – or 1 stick for “Oliver’s Butter Ganache” version
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup – optional shine

Decoration

• 1 cup fresh raspberries – for topping
• ¼ cup chocolate shavings – optional
• powdered sugar – for dusting