Instructions:
Prepare the Chocolate Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
Reduce the speed to low and carefully add the boiling water to the batter. Beat on high speed for about 1 minute to add air to the batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and cool completely on wire racks.
Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color.
Add the butter and stir until melted. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Allow to cool slightly before using.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
Pour the cream cheese mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set.
Allow the cream cheese layer to cool completely.
Assemble the Dessert:
Place one layer of the chocolate cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel sauce over the top.
Add the cream cheese layer on top of the caramel sauce. Spread another layer of caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer.
Top with the second layer of chocolate cake.
Drizzle the top and sides with more caramel sauce.
Place cream puffs on top and drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
Serve:
Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set.
Slice and serve with extra caramel sauce if desired.
Enjoy your rich and creamy layered chocolate and caramel dessert!
