The Jos Louis Cake is inspired by the famous Canadian snack cake, Jos Louis, made by Vachon. Known for its rich chocolatey layers, creamy filling, and smooth ganache coating, the Jos Louis Cake is a decadent dessert that delights with every bite. This homemade version captures the essence of the beloved snack, transforming it into a show-stopping cake perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent.
This recipe involves three main components: the chocolate cake layers, the marshmallow cream filling, and the chocolate ganache. Together, they create a treat that’s rich, sweet, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Marshmallow Cream Filling:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme (or marshmallow fluff)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined.
- Add Boiling Water: Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Filling
- Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add Marshmallow Creme and Vanilla: Beat in the marshmallow creme and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Layer Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of marshmallow cream filling over the top.
- Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top, gently pressing down to adhere.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Add Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir Ganache: Add the butter and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Cool Ganache: Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Pour Ganache: Pour the ganache over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Set Ganache: Let the cake sit at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the ganache sets.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey layers, creamy filling, and decadent ganache.
Tips for the Perfect Jos Louis Cake
- Chill for Easier Slicing: Chilling the cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing can make it easier to cut clean slices.
- Ganache Consistency: If the ganache is too thin, let it cool a bit longer. If it thickens too much, gently reheat it over a double boiler until pourable.
- Decoration: For an extra touch, decorate the top of the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate.
The Jos Louis Cake is a show-stopping dessert that brings the nostalgic flavors of a beloved snack cake to your table. Rich chocolate cake, fluffy marshmallow filling, and smooth ganache combine to create an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any celebration. Enjoy this delightful cake with family and friends!