Embrace the decadence of our Ultimate Soft Sponge Chocolate Cake, a recipe that promises to deliver not just in taste but in texture as well. This cake features a velvety sponge infused with rich cocoa and layered with a luxurious chocolate cream. Topped with a unique chocolate shell, this dessert is designed to impress both visually and gastronomically. Perfect for those who adore deep chocolate flavors paired with the lightness of a sponge cake.
Why You'll Love This: This chocolate cake stands out with its exceptionally soft sponge base and intensely flavorful creamy filling. The cherry syrup adds a subtle fruity sweetness that cuts through the richness, making each bite perfectly balanced. It’s an ideal recipe for any chocolate enthusiast looking to create a stunning homemade dessert with straightforward, fail-safe instructions.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, or any festive occasion, this chocolate cake can also be a star at casual gatherings or as a special weekend treat. Its elegant appearance and satisfying taste make it suitable for both formal and informal settings, ensuring it will be the highlight of any dessert table.
Decoration Tips: For a glamorous finish, sprinkle the top with gold and bronze edible glitter after applying the chocolate coating. This adds a festive sparkle that makes the cake even more appealing. Use a pastry brush for an even chocolate layer, ensuring a smooth and glossy surface. You might also consider decorating with fresh cherries or strawberries to complement the cherry syrup within.
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar (200 ml)
- 4 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (200 ml)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
For the Cherry Syrup:
- 1 small bowl of pitted cherries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust sugar to taste if desired)
For the Chocolate Cream:
- 400 ml cream
- 320 grams dark chocolate (4 packets)
- Optional: ready-made chocolate whipped cream or chocolate pastry cream for convenience
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 100 grams chocolate, melted (mixed milk and dark chocolate)
- Edible gold and bronze glitter for the base
- Start by whisking the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until the sugar dissolves. Add the hot water and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Sift the cocoa powder and flour together and gently fold into the egg mixture using a spatula to avoid deflating the batter.
- Pour the batter into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 10 to 14 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- For the cherry syrup, cook the cherries with sugar in a saucepan over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes until soft. Use the syrup to moisten the cake layers, and add the softened cherries between the layers.
- For the chocolate cream, heat the cream in a saucepan until it begins to boil, then remove from heat. Break the chocolate into pieces and melt into the cream, stirring until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours, then whip until it reaches a whipped cream consistency.
- For the chocolate coating, temper the chocolate by melting and slightly cooling it. Spread the first layer, let it set in the fridge, then apply a second layer for a smooth finish.
- Assemble the cake by layering the sponge with cherry syrup, adding cherries, and covering with whipped chocolate cream. Coat with the tempered chocolate, and refrigerate until set.
Enjoy this Ultimate Soft Sponge Chocolate Cake, and relish in the layers of rich, velvety chocolate and soft, spongy texture that make every slice a luxurious treat!