Creating the Divine Raspberry Choco Hug involves several steps, but the end result is well worth the effort. Follow these instructions carefully for the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until thoroughly combined.
4. Blend the Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms.
5. Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully add the boiling water to the batter, mixing slowly until fully integrated. The batter will be thin.
6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

1. Cook the Raspberries: In a medium saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Simmer: Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cool: Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before using.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Combine with Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Mix Until Smooth: Stir the mixture gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth. Allow to cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cake: Place one layer of the chocolate cake on a serving platter. Spread the raspberry filling evenly over the top.
2. Top with Second Layer: Place the second layer of cake on top of the raspberry filling.
3. Apply Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a rustic look.
4. Add Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle the grated chocolate over the ganache while it’s still slightly warm, ensuring it sticks.