CHOCOLATE CAKE FOR MEN RECIPES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.  Grease and flour 3 (8x2) round pans
• In a medium bowl combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.  Whisk for 30 seconds to blend and set aside.
• In the bowl of your mixer, add the softened butter and softened cream cheese.  Mix until smooth.  Gradually add the sugar.  Mix on low speed for 3 minutes.  Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each until the yellow of the yolk disappears.
• With the mixer on low speed, add about half of the flour mixture.  Mix until combined.
• Add the milk and vanilla.  Blend on low speed, then add the remaining flour mixture. Increase the mixing speed slightly and mix until blended and smooth.  Do not over mix.
• Add the batter to the prepared pans and bake at 325 degrees  for 20 to 23 minutes.  The cake layers are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. 
• Cool the  pans on cooling rack 5 to 10 minutes then turn out. 
• Cut the butter into slices and add to the bowl of your mixer. Beat on low to medium speed until the butter is softened and smooth.
• Add cocoa and mix until blended.
• Cut the cream cheese into pieces and add to the butter, beating at low to medium speed until incorporated.
• Add the vanilla. Gradually add the powdered sugar beating on low speed until blended.
• Increase mixing speed to medium and beat until fluffy, don't over beat. If beaten too long it will become very soft. If this happens, just refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes.
• This frosting will pipe best if used while still very cool. You can make it in advance, refrigerate and when ready to use let it soften slightly (do not microwave) and remix.
• Will frost a 3 layer 8 or 9 inch cake.