Double Chocolate Layer Cake

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).

Spray two 9-inch pans with vegetable spray. Cut two rounds of parchment to fit easily with the parchment paper and spray again with vegetable spray. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups), Granulated Sugar (2 cups), Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (3/4 cup), Baking Soda (2 tsp), Baking Powder (1 tsp) and Kosher Salt (1 tsp). Whisk together until well combined.

In a small bowl, or two measuring cups, add the Buttermilk (1 cup), Canola Oil (1/2 cup), Eggs (2), and Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) and whisk to combine.

With your mixer on low-medium speed, slowly add the liquids to the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Mix in the illy® Espresso Intenso (1 cup), scraping the bottoms and sides to make sure everything is well combined.

Pour the cake batter evenly into the two cake pans and bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.

Remove the pans from the oven and let the cakes cool to room temperature.

While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. Add the Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (2/3 cup) and Unsweetened Chocolate (1/3 cup) to a small bowl and heat in a microwave oven in 15 to 20-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate has melted and is glossy and smooth. Set aside.

In a small bowl, combine the illy® Espresso Intenso (1 tsp) and Water (2 Tbsp).

In a large bowl, beat the Butter (1 cup) until light and airy. Beat in the Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) and Powdered Confectioners Sugar (2 cups) until smooth. Add melted chocolate and instant espresso in water and beat until well combined.

Remove one of the cakes from the pan and place upside down on a cake platter. Add about 3/4 cup of icing to the center of the cake and use an offset spatula to spread the frosting over the surface of the cake. Top with the second tier (upside down again).

Add the remaining frosting to the top of the cake. Spread evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Scatter your favorite Sprinkles (to taste) or other cake decorations if desired.

Serve and enjoy!