Chocolate Ganache Cake

Name: Chocolate Ganache Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)

If you’re a chocolate lover, this chocolate ganache cake is your dream come true! Layers of moist chocolate cake are enveloped in a silky ganache, making it a perfect dessert for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply a sweet treat. Follow our detailed recipe and impress your friends and family with this delightful creation.

Ingredients

– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Servings and Cooking Time

This chocolate ganache cake serves 12 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 30-35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 18g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This is based on a standard slice size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in boiling water until well combined (batter will be thin).
6. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
9. For ganache, heat cream in a saucepan until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
10. Once the cake is cool, pour ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, coconut oil can replace vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

This chocolate ganache cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Fresh berries on the side add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can freeze the cake for up to three months; however, it’s best to enjoy it fresh.

Cooking Mistakes

– Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
– Don’t skip the boiling water; it helps create a moist cake.
– Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender.
– Use a toothpick to check doneness, not a fork.
– Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

Helpful Tips

– Make ganache a day ahead for easier spreading.
– Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
– Level your cake layers for a professional look.
– Decorate with fresh fruits or nuts for added texture.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost and serve.

What type of chocolate should I use for the ganache?

For the ganache, use semi-sweet or dark chocolate. The quality of chocolate impacts the flavor, so choose one you enjoy eating.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! You can use buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a whipped ganache for a lighter topping.

How do I prevent the cake from sinking?

Be sure to accurately measure your ingredients and avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.

What can I do with leftover ganache?

Leftover ganache can be stored in the fridge and used as a dip for fruits or as a filling for pastries.

Conclusion

This chocolate ganache cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it a favorite for any celebration. With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a stunning cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds!