Chocolate/Whipping Cream Torte

Directions

• In heavy saucepan or microwave, melt butter and chocolate; stir until smooth. Cool.
• In a chilled large bowl, beat cream until soft peaks form. Add the eggs, vanilla and cooled chocolate mixture; beat on low speed just until combine. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. With mixer on low speed, add dry ingredients to creamed mixture until just combined.
• Pour into three greased and floured 8- or 9-in. round baking pans. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
• For filling, beat cream in a chilled small bowl until soft peaks form; set aside. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Beat in confectioners' sugar and vanilla. Add whipped cream, beat until smooth.
• Split each cake into two horizontal layers. Place one layer on a serving plate; top with about 1/2 cup filling. Repeat four times. Top with remaining cake layer. Cover and refrigerate.
• For frosting, melt butter and chocolate in a heavy saucepan or microwave; stir until smooth. Cool to room temperature; transfer to a large bowl. Add cream and vanilla; mix well. Beat in confectioners' sugar. Spread over top and sides of cake. Garnish with strawberries if desired. Store in the refrigerator.