Extra-Dark Chocolate Cake with Salted Caramel Sauce

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and cocoa powder until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and cocoa mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely before making the sauce.
9. For the sauce, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously.
10. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11. Remove from heat and allow to cool before pouring over the cake.
12. Serve and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

• Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from free radical damage.
• Caramel is made by heating sugar until it melts and turns into a golden-brown liquid.
• Sea salt is a type of salt that is harvested from evaporated seawater and has a slightly different flavor than regular table salt.