Chocolate Layered Cake with Cocoa Cream and Apricot Jam

Chocolate cake has a way of announcing itself before the first slice is served, and this one does it with quiet confidence rather than excess. Beneath its neat layers sits a soft cocoa sponge, a smooth chocolate cream that holds its shape beautifully, and a thin layer of apricot jam that adds both contrast and polish.

The structure is simple, almost classic, yet the final result looks celebratory. It’s the kind of cake that proves beauty often comes from balance, restraint, and well-executed basics, and works just as well for birthdays and holidays.

What Is Chocolate Layer Cake with Cocoa Cream?

This is a classic-style layered chocolate cake made with a cocoa-rich sponge, a cooked chocolate buttercream, and a fruity apricot finish. The sponge stays soft thanks to milk and melted butter, while the cream filling is based on egg yolks and condensed milk for a smooth, stable texture. Apricot jam adds brightness and helps balance the richness of the chocolate.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Cake

• Sift the dry ingredients carefully to avoid cocoa or flour lumps in the batter.
• Let the sponge cake cool completely before slicing, or the layers may crumble.
• Cook the cream mixture gently on low heat and stir constantly to prevent curdling.
• Chill the assembled cake long enough so the cream firms up, making decorating much easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my chocolate sponge dry?

Overbaking is the most common reason for a dry sponge, so check the cake a few minutes before the baking time ends. Measuring flour accurately is also important, as too much flour can make the cake dense.

Is this cake suitable for decorating?

The firm structure of the sponge and the stable cream make it ideal for decoration. You can add chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or piped cream on top. The crushed cake crumbs on the sides help hide imperfections and add texture.

Can I Freeze This Chocolate Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well once fully assembled, without the jam topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add the apricot jam before serving.

How to Store Chocolate Cake

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cream filling stays stable when chilled, and the sponge remains soft. Always keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.

How to Make Chocolate Layer Cake with Cocoa Cream

Step 1

Step 1

Whisk the eggs with sugar, then add vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter, mixing until smooth and glossy.

Sift flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.

Step 2

Step 2

In a saucepan, mix egg yolks, water, and vanilla extract, then stir in the condensed milk. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Whisk the eggs with sugar, then add vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter, mixing until smooth and glossy.

Step 3

Step 3

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with cocoa powder until smooth, and add the cooled cream base.

Add in the dry ingredients and whisk until fully combined.

Step 4

Step 4

Slice the cooled sponge into three even layers, then spread each layer with sugar syrup and chocolate cream and stack carefully.

Pour the batter into a lined baking pan and bake at 170°C (340°F) for about 50 minutes.

Step 5

Step 5

Brush the cake with milk and refrigerate for 3 hours.

In a saucepan, mix egg yolks, water, and vanilla extract, then stir in the condensed milk. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Step 6

Step 6

Slice and enjoy!

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with cocoa powder until smooth, and add the cooled cream base.

Step 7

Step 7

Slice the cooled sponge into three even layers, then spread each layer with sugar syrup and chocolate cream and stack carefully.

Step 8

Step 8

Brush the cake with milk and refrigerate for 3 hours.

Step 9

Step 9

Spread apricot jam over the top and press crushed cake crumbs onto the sides.

Step 10

Step 10

Slice and enjoy!