Shelly's Recipe

CHOCOLATE FUDGE LAYER CAKE

Category: Cakes from Cake Mixes

1 (2-layer size) pkg chocolate cake mix
1 (4-serving size) pkg instant chocolate pudding & pie filling
4 eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup water
1 (8 squares) pkg semi-sweet baking chocolate, divided
1 tub whipped topping, thawed
2 tbsp sliced almonds

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease 2 (9 inch) round cake pans. Beat first 6 ingredients just until moistened, scraping side of bowl frequently. Beat on medium speed 2 minutes or until well blended. Stir in 2 squares of the chocolate, chopped. Spoon into prepared pans.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted near centers comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 min. on wire rack. Loosen cakes from side of pans with spatula or knife. Invert cakes onto rack; gently remove pans. Cool completely on wire rack.

Place remaining 6 squares chocolate and whipped topping in medium microwaveable bowl. Microwave on HIGH 1 1/2 to 2 min. Stir until well blended and shiny. Cool 5 min. Place 1 cake layer on serving plate; spread 1/4 of the chocolate mixture over cake. Place second cake layer on top; spread remaining chocolate mixture over top and sides of cake. Garnish with almonds.