📖 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Seriously, don't skip the flouring step unless you want a cake that sticks!
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent lumps and ensures an even texture. No one wants a lumpy cake!
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. You want it to be nice and airy!
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be gentle.
5. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk and melted chocolate. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the cake. It's the secret ingredient to a super decadent chocolate cake.
6. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake.
7. Stir in chopped figs and balsamic vinegar. The figs add a lovely sweetness and chewiness, while the balsamic vinegar enhances the chocolate flavor. Don't be shy with the balsamic!
8. Divide batter evenly among prepared cake pans. Use a kitchen scale for perfectly even layers. No one wants a lopsided cake!
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures vary. You don't want to overbake them!
10. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them upside down helps prevent sinking.
11. Prepare the chocolate buttercream frosting: In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add melted chocolate and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
12. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous layer of chocolate buttercream frosting. Repeat with remaining layers.
13. Frost the entire cake with chocolate buttercream frosting. Get creative with your decorating! Swirls, rosettes, or even just a simple smooth finish all look great.
14. Garnish with fresh figs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavors of the cake. Plus, it looks super fancy!
15. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together. Patience is key!