Ahhh June 2011. It was supposed to be the month when my book was published. I know postponing the book’s release date to April 2012 to include a chapter where I got to interview the Domestic Goddess herself Nigella was the best thing for the book. However I am notoriously impatient. When Mr NQN was asked to give five words to describe me impatient featured twice. Unamused should have followed shortly afterwards! 
Still, knowing that it is a better and more complete book because of my meeting with Ms Lawson doesn’t make it any easier to stay behind the start line but I know a book isn’t like a blog where you can add another chapter or story. Once it is printed it is printed. One thing that the extra time has allowed me to do is test the recipes at leisure. Whilst the book is a memoir and not a cookbook, there are a dozen or so recipes that feature at the end of certain chapters where they fit into the story.
In the editing process a few chapters were edited out. These chapter were about how my book deal came about and my publisher felt that they took the reader outside of the book that they were holding. I initially included them as I thought that people might be interested in how the book deal came about as it took quite an interesting path and it was nothing and I mean nothing like how I thought book deals happen. I remember reading Stephenie Meyer’s blog about how her book deal came about and it was very different to mine and many others. I also feel everyone has a book inside them and some readers, blogger or not, are hoping to become published. My publisher Miss K. suggested putting the chapters on the blog which I thought was a great idea and I shall do closer to the release date if anyone is interested.
In the meantime, I am busy having recipes tested. All of the recipes have been tested by myself in order for me to write them but I have enlisted the help of three people to test out my recipes so that they are bulletproof. Mr NQN is my first, having only cooked four times in his life (I don’t count boiling pasta and topping it with cold sauce from a jar as cooking). My mother is my second tester who is a great savoury cook but not a baker and the third is my friend Nic who is a keen baker and spoke music to my ears when she volunteered to help me test the recipes. It was too much to ask of a non family member to do and I gratefully accepted her offer.
One recipe that isn’t in the book as it isn’t mine but I decided to make was this Hot Chocolate Layer Cake with Marshmallows. I got this recipe idea from Arwen who blogged about a “Hot” chocolate cake with the heat in the cake itself. The chocolate cake was richly spiced with cinnamon, black pepper and cayenne pepper rather than hot in temperature. I liked her idea but I wanted to incorporate marshmallows into it so I did some searching and found a recipe for a Hot Chocolate Layer Cake with Marshmallows which I would just add the spicy seasonings to. The cake is moist, chocolatey and rich and the hint of spice lends it an interesting dimension beyond your regular chocolate cake. And the marshmallows? Well they’ll just have you wondering why all cakes aren’t topped with them!
So tell me Dear Reader, would you be interested in reading about how the book deal came about? And do you have a book in you and if so, what is it about? My publisher reads NQN so who knows, she might be smitten with your idea!
Hot Chocolate Layer Cake With Marshmallows
For the cake
- 180g/6 ozs. butter
- 3 cups flour
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil (I used a pecan oil)
- 1 cup water
- 60ml coffee
- 140g dark chocolate
- 3 cups caster or superfine sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa
- 3 eggs at room temperature
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons vanilla
- 100g/3.5ozs pecans toasted
- 2.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For frosting
- 2 1/2 cups cream
- 90g/3ozs. butter
- 180g/6 ozs. chocolate
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 2 cups cocoa powder (yes 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup golden syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For decoration
- 500g/1 pound toasted marshmallows
1. Firstly make the frosting as it will need to set overnight or for a few hours: In a large saucepan on low heat combine cream and butter and melt butter without boiling. Whisk in the chopped chocolate until melted. Whisk in icing sugar, cocoa, syrup and salt. Pour into pan and refrigerate overnight.
2. Line 3 x 20cm 20/8 inch baking tins with parchment and preheat the oven to 180C. In a saucepan combine butter, oil, chocolate and water and melt on medium heat until chocolate is completely melted.
3. In a bowl, add flour, sugar and cocoa. Whisk together until combined. Pour the chocolate mixture into the flour mixture gradually until combined and whisk until smooth. Whisk in eggs one at a time. Then whisk in buttermilk, and vanilla. Take out the whisk and using a spatula add the pecans, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and black pepper and stir to combine. Divide the mixture into three parts into each of the tins and bake in the oven for 40 minutes until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Don’t bake the tins underneath each other rather alternate them halfway during the cooking process. Cool.
Trimming off the uneven top and then flip it carefully upside down so that the super smooth bottom is facing upwards
Ice between layers with the frosting
And on the sides. See those gaps? We’re going to fill them with frosting and an angled spatula like spakfilla 
Like this
And voila, you have your first base coat of frosting aka the crumb coat so that any cake crumbs don’t show up on the outside frosting
4. Place the cake on the serving dish and place strips of baking parchment underneath to make it easier to keep the plate neat and clean. Slice off the domed top from the cake layers (keep for a trifle perhaps or cake pops) and place one layer on the plate. Spread with some of the icing and then place the next trimmed cake layer and then the third layer on top. Then spread a thin layer of icing around the entire cake-this is called a crumb layer. Refrigerate until set for an hour.
After refrigerating the crumb coat, then add a final coat of frosting-you can be generous, I had about a cup left over of frosting (cook’s treat of course )
5. Spread the remaining icing over the whole cake. Then top with toasted marshmallows. Stand back and prepare yourself for marriage proposals…
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112 Comments | Add your own
That cake is absolutely fantastic! Devilishly chocolatty and rich.
Cheers,
Rosa
I’d love to read about your book deal Lorraine. I’d love to write a book on healthy eating, to show that food can be healthy AND tasty AND beautiful – none of this more butter in mash than potatoes masterchef style food
I tried it on the masterchef producers actually and you can probably imagine how they took the idea 
Lorraine, this cake looks simply irresistible! I love the idea of using pecan oil too, I bet it gives the cake an amazing flavour! I would love to hear more about your book deal, maybe one day I will get to write one too
I would love to know how the book deal came about but I am really glad the chapter was disallowed by the publisher. I don’t buy books which means I will be able to read the chapter on your blog:) I am little shelfish I suppose!
I love the cake. It’s a nice idea. I love any spices with chocolate. It would be interesting to hear in how your book dael came about. However, you do write a very good segue into your subject!
chocolate cake-yum..chocolate cake with spices-even better..i want a piece now for breakfast with my cup of tea
There are few things that I love more than layer cakes. I would love to make this with toasted marshmallows on top. It seems I try to turn everything into s’mores, lately…
Personally, I would love to read about your book deal, but can totally understand how it’s not a necessary inclusion in your book itself. And quite honestly, you should start your food travel guide next
This cake looks delicious!
Wishing you the best of luck with your book!
What a great and decadent cake! So much choc goodness!
This cake looks gorgeous, and I would be pleased to make it sometime.
Oh my goodness, WHAT a gorgeous and fun cake! Adding it to my “to-make” list!
I’d love to read more about how the book deal came about!
Yummmmmm sounds delicious, my hubby would love this.
You have such a gift for writing and can capture me on any topic! It sounds interesting how the book deal came about.
btw I am happy to test any of your recipes!! ;D
I would love to read about how your book deal came about!
It’s not too early in the morning to be in need of chocolate cake!
I can’t wait to finally ‘meet’ your book. The whole process is fascinating.
SSG xxx
why yes of course that would be a great blog post – I would even be happy if you had kept it in the book but maybe not everyone is so interested in process as I am. I sometimes feel there is a book in my but as to whether there is in the energy for a book in me I don’t know.
And the cake looks like a wonderful idea for the vegan marshmallows I tried recently
I have so much to say. The cake is great and so similar to those cookies, you are right. As for the book, I’ve been writing a book for years, but I get side tracked, which makes my husband upset as he wants more of it; it has a food theme but with a surprising spin based on my own life (which has enough meat in it to feed a few novels). On that note, Lorraine, I’m ready to hear every juicy detail of your book deal and then I’m first in line to purchase next spring.
Hmm, I’ve had a hankering for a great choc cake of late, and have a big bag of Belgian Dutched cocoa just sitting on the bench begging to be used so this one looks perfect. However, as I’m morbidly afraid of cayenne I’ll probably give that bit a miss.
How scrumptious does this look! Like any kid’s dream cake–or adult’s!
Off to Lithgow for four days next weekend – looks like the perfect cake to make and bring along for snacking on in front of the fire!! Might toast the marshmallows there – thanks Lorraine xo
Oh my this looks so good Lorraine!!! I’ve never seen a cake with pepper! Im not sure about that but i’d try it.
I would love to see your chapters you are my favourite read whilst sipping my morning breakfast tea. Thank you for your delightful observations, reviews and recipes.
it looks soooooooo sinful! dayum!
Yes I would be interested in reading how your book deal came about. Being curious how people lives change, like yours has because of your blog.
As for writing a book perhaps a book on how we as parents cope with a disabled child, as it can send you in a different direction in life than you thought you would be going. One thing my daughter has taught me is patience, not that I don’t expect others to do what I ask when I ask it !
Oh Lorraine you have done it again, that cake just looks amazing, i love that deep, deep chocolate colour, and how moist it seems to be, and marshmallow on top, divine!!! I think everyone has a unique story to tell, but whether or not a publisher would be interested in it is a different story … All of us humans are unique, and with amazing family and personal experiences to tell, but i guess it’s the ones with the “outstanding” stories that would get published, or, like yourself, an amazing blogger with (i have no idea of how many?) daily followers !!!
Heck yeah we want to know how it happened. As you said, we all have at least one book inside us. Most of us have no idea how to coax the book out nor what to do with it once we have.
This cake looks really delicious.
I would love to know how you got publishedm Lorraine!
I await the chapters with baited breath!
I would be very interested to find out about your book deal. I can’t wait to read it by the way.
I’d def love to hear about it. Your story in general is such an inspiration to anyone who loves food so I want to hear it all
What a gorgeous looking cake. Anything spicy is always good with chocolate. It looks moist and delicious. Your book will be even better than expected Lorraine. I cant wait to get my copy. You will need to autograph it for me. It would be good to read all the chapters that were edited out. It would really give your readers a chance to preview your book before its release.
Even to a non-cake eater this does look absolutely scrumptious!
! I love the height, the rich colour & the abundant pile of marshmallows! Of course we would all, methinks, love to read how this came about! 
! Yes, I believe I have two books ‘in me’. The first would be non-publishable and meant for the future generations, because some in my family, due to circumstances, do not even know me! 
! The second would be a ‘Happy Alone’ type of thing – after quite a few longterm relationships, it took me awhile to realize how content I was living on my own: many people are not – so this would give all the tips I have learned – everything from housekeeping to cooking (largely – cooking for one!) to making/keeping friends, travelling/moving around home turf onesome and cherishing it – cooking + psychology in the one volume! Have kind’of started, but time runs away . . . .
I for one am soooo looking forward to your book, Lorraine. I know it’s going to be fun and interesting. I am hoping we will be able to get it here in the states.
As for the cake… looks delish. I was just thinking about making chocolate icecream with hot pepper in it… love the idea!
Yummy!!! I must try this
The marshmallows look beautiful, and it must be a lovely moist cake with the buttermilk. I’d love to hear about the book deal here on the blog if you’re willing to share with us.
this looks delicious lorraine!
Love the cake Lorraine.
I would like to produce two booklets for my kids and grandkids who are always so so busy:
One, “Faster Than Takeaway”; the other, “Veggies in Disguise” – how to get your kids to eat their veg despite themselves.
omg! Lorraine thanks so much for this recipe, no book for me in the near future, but I’ll defineately be on the look out for yours….in tne mean time this cake will see me through the week! bless!
p.s. sorry for spelling errors…my mum would be so upset at these!! She thinks the younger generations have terrible spelling! The cake looks beautiful xo
Oh Lorraine, if only I had had this recipe a few weeks ago when I was searching high and low for a moist chocolate cake recipe. This looks absolutely delicious and decadent. No more wasting time , I’m going to make this soon. Just like your Beef Rendang recipe , I made it and it was a hit, even though I had to hold back on the amount of chillis because of the grandkids.
Yes, I definitely want to hear all about the events leading up to your book deal. I agree that everyone has a book in them, just through the sheer fact that life is a book! Whether or not that life is interesting and/or bankable depends on a lot of factors. Personally, I have been told by family and friends that I have an interesting writing style but is it a winning style?
On an entirely different note, there’s a lot of excitement in our household today , as we’re heading to the airport with our youngest daughter Gabriella aka the Cupcake Queen, to see her off on a two month holiday.
Someone take my temperature… I want that cake.
And of course I would love to hear your story. My readers are constantly asking me to write a book, but I think it is cause they want to be able to read at work where my blog is blocked by profanity filters. Heh.
Looking forward to the book! And to hearing how the business of books works.
In the meantime, there is cake to be had!
What a gorgeous cake! I cannot wait to read those extra chapters, as I agree with everything you have said; we almost all have a book in us, for better or worse, and your story as to how your book deal came about will inspire and offer hope to those not yet so lucky!
Looks absolutely amazing and delicious! Will definatley try this soon
what a beautiful simple cake! LOVE it (esp in this freezing cold weather but i’m loving the sunny days!)
wowee! that looks so naughty and yummy and I’m surprised by how simple the recipe is!
I would love to hear about your book deal, I was genuinely disappointed when I worked out this post would not include it.
OMG – this cake sounds like my cup of… hot chocolate! I love sweet foods with cayenne pepper/salt/chilli…
Can’t wait to read the book. I too have ‘impatient’ in my five word decriptors.
WHAT a GREAT cake, TRUE!
is called POSTED WITH LOVE, true!
Love to hear how the book came about too!
Agree that EVERYONE has a book inside!
That they can share with pride!
My imaginary book
Collect postcards from around the world, than write about a native dish or dessert from that country too!
HAVE the passion, researched idea, WHOO HOO!
Now looking for someone to mentor me in the finer things (in reality) that I CAN do!!!
Man, this looks so sinful! And it’s 11pm at my place!
That cake looks heavenly. I often add a little cinnamon to chocolate goodies but I’ve never thought of adding pepper.
I would love to read about how your book deal came to be! I’d also love to write a book but I have no idea what I would write about. I did think for months that I’d love to start a blog but didn’t know what to talk about and then the idea ‘came to me.’ Maybe a book would come to me too!
Wow that looks amazing. I’m always on the hunt for the ideal choc cake recipe and this looks like it might be a winner – especially with those spices in it. Mmmm
Such a fun idea to add marshmallows. Of course I want to read all about the book deal. xoxo Mum
What a fantastic idea for a cake. I saw a similar one recently on Sweetapolita that used marshmallow frosting. I’ve been meaning to try it for ages!
I’d love to hear about the book deal! It’ll be interesting and a good future reference
Love the cake idea too, I’ve had spiced hot choc and truffles but but a cake yet.
I’ve actually always wanted to help my 97 year old grandma do an autobiography. She lived through the Japanese invasions in China, cultural revolution where my grandpa was thrown in jail for speaking out and brought up 8 kids on her own while being shunned by society. It’s always so fascinating to hear the stories that no doubt others will be interested too! Second I’d love to have my own recipe/memoir book like yours
Dear, Lorraine.
You continually push sins and naughty thoughts upon your readers. Shame on You.
This cake is “Pure Sin.” My God, I am drooling & in Lust of this cake. I want to go to bed with it. Marshmallows & Chocolate. SHUT Up!
PS. i am hoping to buy an autographed copy of your book so I can say I knew her when!!!
Your blog is my All Time Fave. I love love love it!
How are all the vampires doing in Australia????
looks deliiicious! can’t wait for a copy of your book
I too am the most impatient person and my husband also describes me the same way. Love the look of the cake, the marshmallows are super cute
I would love to read those extra chapters in your book and would also LOVE to write a book one day – about growing up in the inner west of Sydney, the different food experiences I had growing up and about food in general.
I love the idea of using spice in the cake to heat it up! And great tip about having a “crumb coat”. I never thought of that.
I’m really looking forward to your book. You’ve been inspiring me daily for the past few years, and I would love to read more about how the book deal happened
You are such a tease! OF COURSE we all want to hear how the book came about. That’s a total given. So, spill it, sister. Pronto.
Then, please pass me a big slice of that cake while you’re at it.
Ok firstly this cake looks amazing!!! Love it, so creative. & yes I sooo want to hear about your publishing story. I’d love to write about my life one day (haha sounds strange) – but really just travel, food, cooking, life. everything
Heidi xo
YES, YES, YES. I’d love to hear. In detail please.
And, on my bucket list is publish a cookbook or 3, get Cookies Diary into a book/theatre production and perhaps The HG story. So yesssssss please, share your story with us.
PS: YOUR CAKE IS AMAZING.
Who do you feed all your amazing creations too?
I really love the idea of this cake, especially the marshmallows on top! How gorgeous! I can imagine how warm and comforting it’d be, perfect for a cup of tea and a gossip with the girlfriends!
Joanne, I LOVE the idea of your book, it sounds like something I’d have sitting on my coffee table
And Lorraine, I for one would love to hear about how your book came to be! I could certainly use the inspiration!
My book idea, that I’ve just bought myself a big giant notebook and shiny new pen to start working on, will (hopefully, one day!!) be a collection of stories, photos and recipes from my Italian background, looking at the inspiration and influences that my Italian heritage as well as my growing up in Melbourne have had on me and my cooking. I’d also love to explore other topics like family, body image, health, life lessons, cultural identity, and of course, chocolate
Can’t wait to read your book when it’s released now, as you’re such an inspiration to me!
I have a question , all these lovely competitions on your site what email adddress do I use to enter them ,please? I am a bit of a lost lamb here, lol thanks from Carine.
I’m from the US. What is icing sugar and golden syrup? I would love to make this. I so enjoy your blog. All the food – all the travel. Can’t wait to buy the book. I guess I could get pecan oil on line. I have maple syrup. Is that a substitute foe golden sugar? icing sugar has me stumped. Thanks Nigella.. Kathie
I would definitely love to read how the book came about, but agree, it’s perfect to go on your blog. Then it’s kind of a companion to the book where people can go to learn more about you and your rise to stardom!
I’ve had a book published already – not that it made me rich and famous – but I enjoyed the process.
I definitely have more in me, and have loads of ideas, but find I spend too much time blogging and reading blogs to make much headway.
Guess I need to get more organised!
Good luck, I agree waiting to include meeting the other Nigella was an ace move that will complete your book!
Yes, please write about your book deal. I dont think I have the committment to write a book, but I do write a bi-monthly column for a widely circulated US magazine and that is a bit of a thrill!
The cakes looks wicked by the way!
Wow.. I am going to try this cake.. looks delish… I would love to read the chapters being omitted from your book.. sounds interesting.. agree everyone has a book in them.. life is so interesting and no one takes exactly the same journey…..
I think everyone may have a book in them but perhaps lack the ability to write it
I’d definitely be interested in reading your missing chapters
I can’t seem to get the recipes to the items that are shown here, to come up. Only the conversation. How do I get there? – Confused.
The cake looks like the most intensely rich chocolate cake ever!!!
YUMMY!
Also we absolutely want to know all about your book deal and it is going to kill us to wait until April for the release.
That is the most gorgeous styling of a chocolate cake I have ever seen! The contrast of the white and chocolate and then the delicate cocoa sprinkled on top is so pretty
Count me in for the chapters about the book deal! I would love to read about your whole journey… From vogue forum days to 10 blog readers to goodness knows how many now!
One day, I’d like to submit a Mills & Boons draft story. There, I said it!
Oh sweet jesus. I need you to move in with me. I don’t give a crap about Mr NQN’s feelings… I need you, and that cake, in my life IMMEDIATELY.
Oh yes please! I would dearly love to read all of the chapters, and am very interested in the whole go-to-whoah process. If only you could deliver this cake through the screen too, in eatable form…
Hi Lorraine, yes would definitely be interested in how the book deal came about. Looking at that delicious cake and contemplating the recipe is not doing the waistline any favours !!
I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news after all the postive feedback above, but I have just tried this amazing looking cake and I think you have missed typing up an ingedient in the main body of the cake….It was a dreadful FLOP!
So devestating after dreaming about it all day and now I have to buy something for my grandmama’s birthday…eek :/ such a shame about those beautiful ingredients.
The icing was to die for though!!!!!
Drool….this is so yummy!
Hi M-that is really curious-the cocoa was missing but that should not have have made it a flop at all as there was already plenty of chocolate. I’ve double checked it against the other website who created the cake and it has 36 reviews and is rated really highly (4.5 out of 5 stars) and no-one mentions a flop at all. Could you have missed a step or another ingredient perhaps?
ooooh, that cake has my name on it! Please do write up about how you got the book deal, I’m sure there will be heaps and heaps of interest from your readership!
I would love to hear the rest of the journey of your book!
I would soooo love to have a book of my own, a book on InTolerant cooking that isn’t militant like so many that are written for the allergy crowd. I love being a chef, and don’t feel that my food InTolerances hold me back at all- as a matter of fact, I enrolled at TAFE today to do my Pastry Chef certification. I belive in making change from inside the industry, one gluten at a time!
Oh, and that cake is amazing! Yumm…
I just ate breakfast, but after reading this entry I’m pretty sure it’s time for dessert
And yes, I’d love to read about how the deal came about on the blog!
Hi Rosa-thank you very much! Yes it was very, very rich!
Hi Renee-That’s great to hear!
Haha isn’t that funny, they weren’t receptive? 
Hi Maria-yes it was the first time I used pecan oil, it’s such a nice oil to use!
Absolutely, you never know!
Hi Three-Cookies-Haha ok what a funny thing to say!
And was shelfish a Freudian slip!
Hi tania-Thanks Tania!
Yes I agree, it really adds something to chocolate 
Aww thank you so much!
Hi teawithhazel-haha I wish I could send it out!
Hi Amber-I know, aren’t layer cakes just divine? I love them!
Haha nothing wrong with that, I love smores! 
Hehe thankyou! Now I love that idea, I really do! 
Hi Kristy-thanks very much on both counts Kristy!
Hi Joey-Thank you! I know, it’s not short on chocolate
Hi Cakelaw-Great! I hope you like it!
Hi Julie-Oh fantastic! I’d love to know what you think of it!
I’m so glad that people want to read about it!
Hi muppy-Oh thank you! That is such a lovely thing for you to say!
Oh wow really? Thanks so much for the kind offer, I’ll definitely keep it in mind! 
Hi Lisa-Oh cool!
Hi SSG-haha it’s never too early
Thanks, it was really interesting to me too! 
xxx
Hi Johanna-i think it was more than it takes the reader outside of the book that she wanted to take it out. But that’s ok, as long as I can put it here then I’ll be happy
Oh you definitely do I’m sure! Absolutely perfect for those vegan marshmallows!
Hi Angela-Oh fantastic so is it fiction or non fiction? How fabulous! Well jsut keep plugging away, I’m sure your life would certainly fill several books! Aww thank you so much Angela!
Hi Amanda-Oh that’s perfect then!
Hehe that’s cool, you can totally omit that 
Hi Victoria-Thanks so much Victoria!
Hi Stefania-Oh I love that plan. I mean marshmallows and fire are just perfect partners aren’t they!
You’re very welcome! 
xxx
Hi leah-hehe I promise it’s not strong at all!
Hi Kylie-Aww thank you Kylie! I’m so flattered!
You’re more than welcome- thank YOU for reading! 
Hi Christine-Thanks Christine! hehe yes it aint diet food
Hi jenny-That’s great!
Absolutely, that would make a great book to help parents going through the same thing but also to help others understand.
Hi Linda-Thanks Linda! Yes it’s got all of those things that make a rich chocolate cake
I think you described it perfectly-we are all so amazingly different! 
Aww thank you!
Hi Maureen-hehe cool!
Yes a few years ago I never thought that I’d get a book published! 
Thank you!
Hi Lauren-thanks Lauren! I promise I won’t leave it too long
hi Debra-Thank you so much Debra!
Hi Nic-Aww thanks Nic! I can’t believe it sometimes myself
Hi Katherine-Thanks Kath! I hope so
Of course I will 
Yes it’s just a couple on the book deal so I’ll be sure to put them here 
Hi EHA-I do love the height of layer cakes, they always look so attention grabbing! What a great idea having a book just for family! and I like that second idea a lot!
Hi deana-Thanks deana!
I hope you guys will too! 
mmm that sounds delicious!
Hi Almond-hehe cool!
Hi Arwen-yes I love using buttermilk because it makes things so moist!
Absolutely happy to!
Hi Betty-Thanks Betty!
Hi Marg-Thanks Marg! Oh I love those idea, what a great idea for time poor parents!
Hi Anna-Oh great! Yes I think chocolate cake solves everything doesn’t it!
Hehe no problems at all! xxx
Hi Matilda-Oh really? There’s also the one bowl chocolate cake recipe if you want something really quick
Oh yay I’m so glad that you liked it! 
Absolutely, everyone’s life has something interesting about it! Hey who knows! I’m sure yours will be warm and witty whatever it is 
How exciting!
Hi Kelley-Haha yes after all of that yoga right?
Haha you might need a sticker on the front of your book but I’d buy it 
Hi Mrs.Lodhz-Thank you very much!
Here here!
Hi Jonathon-Thanks Jonathan!
Yes I hope it does, I really do believe most people have a book in them 
Hi Harlin-Fabulous! I’d love to know what you think of it!
Hi idontcryieat-Thank you! Hehe I know, the sun helps save the cold days doesn’t it!
Hi Jenny-Yes it’s so simple really!
Hi Charlotte-Cool! Well I don’t want to peak too early!
Hi Emma-hehe one day I shall make this for you!
Hehe we probably have very similar words 
Hi Joanne-Oh that’s great!
What a lovely idea for a book! 
Best of luck with it!
Hi Michelle-hehe really? I always get late night cravings
Hi Claire-Thanks Claire!
Yes it’s the first time for me too! 
Hehe you never know, it might just come to you in a dream! 
Hi Esz-Oh yay! I’m so glad!
Yes they add just that little extra!
Hi Barbara-Thanks mum! Ihope you’ll be proud of my book!
xxx
Hi Jen-Oh that sounds amazing! What a great idea!
Hi Akika-A truffle version sounds wonderful
I’m so glad that people are interested! That would be wonderful to read I think! 
Is she interested in that? Hehe fabulous! 
Hi kim-hehe I’m terrible aren’t I!
Yes it’s best eaten in bed 
Thank you so very much Kim, I am honoured! 
I am about to watch some tonight! xxx
Hi Christine-Thanks Christine-on both counts!
Hi The Food Mentalist-It’s not a bad thing is it?
that would be great! I’m amazed at all of the fabulous ideas that everyone has here! 
Hi Chanel-yes it’s technically hot then!
they’re really useful for to make sure there aren’t crumbs everywhere! Thank you so much! I hope you like it! 
Hi Carolyn-hehe well you never know!
Haha I will in due time-with cake 
Hi Heidi- Thanks Heidi!
Sounds like it would be fabulous and tasty too! 
xxx
Hi Anna-I’m so glad!
Cookies Diary has great potential as a historic book as well as a food cookbook as does your own story! 
Hehe this one went to a friend who was having a birthday 
Hi jess-Oh yes it’s the perfect girly catchup cake. I mean who doesn’t love chocolate!
I’m so happy that people want to hear about it. I wasn’t sure! That sounds like it would have something interesting for so many people! 
Thank you!
Hi carine-You just leave a comment at the bottom of the competition story, much like you did for this story
Hi kathie-Icing sugar is powdered sugar. I don’t think you have golden syrup very readily so you can use corn syrup in its place
You can use regular vegetable oil, I think pecan oil is a specialist item from cookery stores and perhaps health food stores 
I hope this helps!
Hi bronnie-Thanks Bronnie! Yes that’s true
I know it’s an intersting process isn’t it! Not at all what I expected. hehe well blogging is fun in itself too! 
Thanks! It just feels like forever but I must learn patience! 
Hi Jodie-thanks Jodie, I definitely will share it
Oh that’s fantastic and I’d imagine a real thrill! 
Thank you!
Hi joanne-Thanks very much Joanne!
I know, I’ve always wanted to step into someone’s life just for a day or two! 
Hi Phunk-Oh perhaps a ghost writer could help then!
Thank you! 
Hi Dot-Oh I am not sure why, they should come above the comments?
Hi GourmetGetaways-yep rich is definitely the word for it!
I know, it’s killing me 
Arrgh! 
Hi Christie-Thank you very much lovely!
Hi JCP-Hehe yes it has been quite a journey!
Oh that sounds interesting! Why not!
Hi Lizzi-Thank you! Haha I’m sure Mr NQN would happily loan me out if it gave him some peace
Hi Hannah-Thanks Hannah! Hehe I’d love to-could we do a swap perhaps? those truffles on your blog look great
Hi Stefanie-I’m so glad! Phew! I was worried people might say they weren’t interested! Hehe wish I had some now
Hi Blond Duck-Thanks Blond Duck!
Hi YaYa-hehe I’m so relieved! Will do!
Hi InTolerantChef-Thank you!
Yes that would be a great idea-different from what is out there! Oh how fabulous! 
haha one gluten at a time-now that could be a book title! 
Hi Amy-I like your way of thinking I really do!
Thanks so much!
Would LOVE to hear how your book deal came about- agent is currently pitching my memoir of what would drive someone to go and try and visit all the best restaurants in the world around at the moment. Cross fingers for me please… In the meantime, I’m eating a lot of cake. And this one looks divine- as always.
I would love to hear about your book deal, sure! I guess most bloggers like playing around with words, but from that to actually publishing a book…more like a dream.
I’d love to hear about the book deal Lorraine!
I know it’s been done plenty of times but I still aim to create a book of cake & cupcake decorating tips & how-tos. It is my next goal after my cake shop is up and running and my daughter has started school
I love the idea of a hot chocolate cake, Lorriane! Those marshmallows on top are stunning and send it right over the edge into mind-blowingly delicious! And I’d love to hear about how your book deal came to be!
Pecan oil and spiced cake. This is such a fun one! You must keep sharing your book trials and tribulations. We are totally interested and love to learn about the process. We have a cookbook/lifestyle manual idea and would love to see it come to life!
What a fabulous idea for a cake! It looks gorgeous and scrumptious! Lorraine, I would love to hear the story of how your book deal came to be:) I am looking forward to your’ book coming out! I would love to write a book, focused on one specific treat:) Hopefully someday…
The cake is stunning! And yes, I would absolutely love to hear how the book deal came about because everyone takes a different path to get their book published.
Lorraine, this looks soooo faaaab! Gosh, take a look at the texture of the cake?? Isn’t it just perfect! Thanks for sharing us the recipe and your result. I’d sure love to try it myself. Oh and the books sounds exiting! Hey, you will never know you may be able to publish it earlier. I’m definitely looking forward with it! Thumbs up!
Hot chocolate cake with marshmallows! You’ve won my heart, girlfriend! What else is better than a hot chocolate with marshmallows but in CAKE form! Good stuff and so perfect for winter!
I put together a cookbook for my family several years ago. Lots of old and new family recipes along with family photos. We tested, edited and STILL there were mistakes! It was big, over 300 pages, and not professionally published, but everyone loved it. I’ve done one really small one since then and will probably do another.
Your chocolate cake, loaded with marshmallows, is a HUGE temptation!
Absolutely GORGEOUS cake, Lorraine! I’m so sorry for the delay with your book, but I KNOW it will be worth the wait!!!
A lovely cake, and a great idea to write about how you got your book deal: why don’t you publish it as a small e-book to complement the main book: it would be a lovely PR piece and encourage your readers to share it and spread the word. If you haven’t already, check out Seth Godins thedominoproject.com, he writes about publishing in this evolving world of online/offline, and there is a recent post about an author called Jenny Blake who shares her “checklist for a book launch” and it is super detailed and very useful.
Opinioniste.com: creating exceptional consumer experiences, who’s doing it and how.
Hi, I thought that was the case so I put about 1/2 cup of cocoa in hoping for the best.
Otherwise the only thing I can think of was that I used plain flour – as you didn’t specify self raising….???
OMG! DROOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLL
and yes, duh i’d love to hear about how you got the deal! and looking forward to the finished product 
x
And congratulations on the book deal!! I haven’t been so active about in blogtown but it’s great to read about your book getting published
I’ll have two slices of this cake please. It looks amazing!
Hi Tori -oh how fantastic! Well the best of luck with that, it sounds like a wonderful idea. Fingers and toes crossed for you Tori!
Thank you
Hi Nuts about food -Thanks! Yes it seems like a dream most of the time
Hi Maree-Thank you Maree-will do!
I love books like that and there never seem to be enough with so many wonderful ideas floating around! I hope you do it! And good luck with the cake shop idea! 
Hi Faith-Thanks Faith!
Hehe I love doing things over the top 
Thanks! 
Hi The Duo Dishes-I really enjoyed making this cake!
Thanks guys, I promise I will 
Oh tell us more about it! 
Hi Sue-Thanks Sue!
I will definitely share it then! On really-sounds intriguing! 
Hi Akila-Thank you Akila!
I agree, everyone’s path is so different!
Hi Rylan-It’s not as nice as your creations though!
I hope you like it! Hehe I think thetiming is finely orchestrated by my publisher! 
Thank you!
Hi catty -Thanks darlin! Haha it’s a necessary Winter item
Hi Barbara-Oh wow, what a labour of love! That’s a great idea and so valuable. I’ve seen a few family recipe books like that and they’re such gems!
Hi Krista-Thanks Krista!
Haha I know, it’s for the best but thank you for your words 
Hi Kim-That’s an interesting idea! Thanks for that, I’m off to have a look at them now-thank you Kim!
Hi M-Yes you do use plain flour. I wonder if you accidentally left out an ingredient or a step as the recipe is correct and
many have used it?
Hi Shmii-Thanks so much! Thanks, it has been quite a exciting ride
Thank you! 
x
Hi Su-yin-Coming right up!
The layering is beautiful. It looks so simple but it isn’t.
More of your book please! Please and thank you
Yes, tell us about how the book came about. I have lots of books in me but mostly just the titles like “How to be a Trophy Wife” or “I’d like Joint Custody but not a Divore”. I’m full of fun ideas.
I’ll look forward to your story.
Wow what a great indulgence! Love the marshmallow on top!
Hi Penny-Thank you so much! Hehe absolutely I promise!
Hi Kathleen-Hah they sound fabulous and very entertaining!
Thank you!
Hi Xiaolu-Thanks very much, it’s not an every day treat but it’s not too bad for an indulgent treat every now and then
thank you!
Oooh I LOVE the sound of this hot chocolate cake, and topping it with marshmallows makes it even better! I think I died and went to heaven.
I can’t wait to read your book. I’m impatiently awaiting it’s release. Bring on April 2012!
lorraine, that’s the densest yet most moist chocolate cake ever. the frosting looks properly rich, too. lovely!
That cake looks so gorgeously rich and lovely. YUM. I’d love to hear more about how you got the book deal
Oh my goodness YES of course we all want to know you crazy woman! Why are you even asking. It must be torture for you to know that your book could be out there right NOW. But you can consul yourself with yourself with the creative integrity and strong will behind your decision to add that chapter. Oh and YUM the cake looks delish.
Yes Lorraine, I want to read about your journey to have your book published. Oh, that cake looks divine and I would say tastes that way too.
Yum!!! Looks like a chocoholic’s heaven!!!!;)
I was thinking of making this. You mention water in the method but there is not mention of how much in the ingredients. Maybe this is the problem for ‘M’.Would love to try it.
Thanks Leesa, that might be it! I’ve amended it
Hi NQN, long time reader first time poster, we just went to make this beast of a cake and couldn’t work out where to add the icing sugar to the frosting mix, I decided to just add it after everything else in the frosting was combined…
I’ve made the cakes now, they are amazing and so so yummy, substituted cayenne pepper for ground chilli flakes and it seems to have worked as well
Love your work
Chloe
Thanks Chloe! Have added it
So glad that you liked it, it’s such a crazy but delicious cake 
Are you kidding me! This looks SOOOOOOO divine! 6 months post twin pregnancy, and trying to loose allll that baby fat, but i’m So going to give this recipe a go!
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