Indulge in the warm flavors of the holiday season with a delightful Mexican-inspired treat – Pastel De Chocolate, a rich and decadent chocolate cake that is sure to become a festive favorite. This traditional recipe combines the comforting richness of chocolate with the cheery flavors of Christmas for a delicious dessert that will impress your guests and loved ones.
**Pastel De Chocolate – Mexican Christmas Chocolate Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups buttermilk
– 1 cup hot coffee
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C) and **grease** a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium **bowl**, **sift** together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. **Set aside**.
3. In a large mixing **bowl**, **cream** together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add** the eggs one at a time, **beating** well after each addition. **Stir** in the vanilla extract.
5. **Gradually mix** in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. **Stir** in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth and well combined. The batter will be thin – this is normal.
7. **Pour** the batter into the prepared cake pan and **smooth** the top with a spatula.
8. **Bake** in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Remove** the cake from the oven and **cool** in the pan for 10 minutes before **transferring** to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Once** the cake has cooled, **dust** with powdered sugar if desired for a festive touch.
**Enjoy** this delicious Pastel De Chocolate with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee, or serve it as a sweet ending to your holiday feast. The rich, moist texture and intense chocolate flavor make it a perfect treat for Christmas gatherings or any cozy evening at home. Share the joy of the season with this delightful Mexican Christmas Chocolate Cake and create special memories with your loved ones.
