This Rich and Decadent Chocolate Cake captures the essence of what a true chocolate cake should be. Infused with a hint of coffee and layered with a silky chocolate ganache, this cake offers a moist, flavorful base with a creamy, luxurious topping. Every bite is a deep dive into chocolate heaven, perfect for any chocolate lover seeking a satisfying dessert.
Why You'll Love This:
- Deep Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa and coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, making it rich and full-bodied.
- Silky Smooth Ganache: The ganache topping adds a velvety texture and rich chocolate layer that perfectly complements the moist cake.
- Versatile and Customizable: This cake serves as a fantastic base for various embellishments or can be enjoyed in its pure, simple form.
Perfect Occasion: This chocolate cake is ideal for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. It's also perfect for a weekend baking project to treat yourself and your family to something truly special.
Decoration Tips:
- Dust with Cocoa Powder: For a refined finish, lightly dust the top with cocoa powder after the ganache sets.
- Add Fresh Berries: Decorate with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
- Chocolate Shavings: Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls to enhance the chocolatey experience.
Ingredients:
- Cake:
- 130g hot water
- 1 tsp instant coffee
- 40g cocoa powder
- 120g butter, softened
- 120g oil
- 120g sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 200g milk
- 1 tbsp cooking vinegar
- 280g all-purpose flour
- 6g baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Ganache:
- 300g whipping cream
- 300g dark chocolate, chopped
- 50g butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 20cm cake mold.
- Mix hot water, cocoa powder, and instant coffee. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, oil, sugar, and vanilla. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in milk and vinegar.
- Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Incorporate the cooled cocoa mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared mold and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool, then slice horizontally into two layers.
- Make the Ganache:
- Heat the whipping cream until just boiling, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Add butter and mix until fully incorporated.
- Allow the ganache to set at room temperature until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache, then top with the second cake layer.
- Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache.
- Decorate as desired and let set before serving.
Enjoy this indulgent chocolate cake, a perfect treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the elegance of a simple yet stunning presentation!