Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Cake

Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
1 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 7-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
2 In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3 In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
4 Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5 Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6 Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Raspberry Filling:
7 In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
8 Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before using.
Prepare the Chocolate Truffle Ganache:
9 In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
10 Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in the butter until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Cake:
11 Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the raspberry filling evenly over the top. Repeat with the second cake layer and the remaining raspberry filling. Top with the final cake layer.
12 Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a polished look.
13 Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set the ganache and enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions:
• Garnish with fresh raspberries or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Calories: 400 kcal per serving