Single Serve Decadent Chocolate Cake with Rich Ganache

This Single Serve Decadent Chocolate Cake is the perfect indulgence for one or a sweet treat to share between two. It’s rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey, enhanced by a luxurious ganache topping that adds an extra layer of creamy, chocolate goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert fix or a special treat to end a romantic meal, this cake delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This: This cake combines the simplicity of quick preparation with gourmet results. The addition of hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, creating a complex and rich taste profile that’s usually found in more labor-intensive desserts. The ganache topping, smooth and velvety, perfectly complements the moist cake, making each bite a delightful experience.

Perfect Occasion: Ideal for a last-minute dessert, a small celebration, or a night in, this cake is versatile enough for various occasions. It’s perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want to commit to baking a full-sized cake. It’s also a fantastic option for date nights or when you want to impress a special someone with your baking skills.

Decoration Tips:

• Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Add a few fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a hint of tartness.
• Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a simple yet elegant finish.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Ingredients:

• Cake:
  • 1/2 cup (65 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
  • 3 tablespoons (18 grams) good quality cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) buttermilk or milk
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) hot coffee or water
• Ganache:
  • 100 grams heavy cream
  • 100 grams semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a small oven-safe bowl or pan and set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In the prepared oven-safe bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg yolk, and vanilla extract.
4. Make the Batter:
   • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
   • Slowly stir in the hot coffee or water until the batter is smooth.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared bowl or pan.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Ganache:
   • Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it is almost boiling.
   • Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, letting them sit until melted, then stir until smooth.
   • Place in the refrigerator to cool and thicken slightly.
7. Assemble and Serve:
   • Once the cake is cool, pour the ganache over the top.
   • Allow the ganache to set slightly before serving.

Enjoy this exquisite Single Serve Decadent Chocolate Cake, a perfect blend of ease and sophistication that will satisfy your chocolate cravings any day of the week!