Chocolate ganache cake

Chocolate Ganache Cake

Total preparation time: 4 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Discover the delight of a chocolate ganache cake, a decadent dessert that will enchant your senses! This recipe is perfect for any occasion: from birthdays to gatherings with friends or simply to indulge your family. Just the thought of a fluffy cake layered with rich chocolate cream and a smooth glaze will make your mouth water!

The history of the chocolate ganache cake is shrouded in time, but it is clear that it has become a favorite in kitchens around the world. Ganache, that simple yet sophisticated mixture of chocolate and cream, offers a velvety texture and intense flavor, making each slice a true culinary experience.

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 6 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of cold water
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 1 packet of Dr. Oetker baking powder

For the cream:
- 500 ml of heavy cream (we recommend Meegle Creme Patisserie)
- 300 g of dark chocolate (you can experiment with milk chocolate, if you prefer)
- 1 packet of instant coffee

For the glaze:
- 200 g of dark or milk chocolate (your choice)
- 2-3 tablespoons of milk or liquid cream

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the cake
1. Start by separating the eggs. Beat the egg yolks with the sugar, cold water, and oil using a mixer until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. It's important to whip the egg whites well to achieve an airy cake.
3. In the egg yolk mixture, add the flour mixed with cocoa powder and baking powder. Gently fold with a spatula.
4. Incorporate the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture using a spatula, being careful not to lose the air in the batter.
5. Pour the batter into a baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C for 25 minutes. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Step 2: Preparing the cream
1. Start preparing the cream a few hours before assembling the cake to allow it to cool properly. Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bowl with the instant coffee.
2. Heat the cream in a saucepan until just about to boil, then pour it over the broken chocolate and stir until the chocolate is completely melted.
3. Let the mixture cool in the refrigerator for about 2-4 hours until it thickens.
4. Once cooled, whip the mixture with a mixer until it becomes fluffy cream.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
1. Once the cake has cooled, cut it in half evenly. Ideally, you should get two thin layers, but if you don’t succeed, don’t worry! The taste will still be delicious.
2. Prepare a syrup from water, sugar, and rum essence (optional) to soak the layers. This step will add moisture and flavor.
3. Place one layer on a serving platter and soak it evenly. Spread the entire amount of cream over the first layer, then cover it with the other half.

Step 4: Preparing the glaze
1. In a heatproof bowl, place the broken chocolate pieces and microwave for about 1 minute. Check and stir well.
2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk or liquid cream and mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy glaze.
3. Pour the glaze over the cake, allowing it to gently drip down the sides.

Step 5: Decorating and serving
1. A nice option is to use melted white chocolate to create a decorative effect on the cake. Place the white chocolate in a bag and cut a small corner, drizzling lines randomly on top.
2. Let the cake sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before cutting it, so it can firm up and the flavors can meld.

Practical tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- If you want to enrich the cake, you can add fresh fruits between the layers of cream, such as raspberries or strawberries.
- For a less sweet option, you can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for the glaze.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, but keep in mind that dark chocolate provides a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake layers.

2. How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will intensify as it sits.

3. What drinks pair well with this cake?
Black coffee or espresso are excellent to balance the sweetness of the cake. Additionally, a sweet red wine or chocolate liqueur would be delicious combinations.

The nutritional benefits of this cake should not be overlooked. Dark chocolate is known for its high antioxidant content, and cream provides a quick source of energy. However, consume in moderation, as the calories can add up quickly!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get started! Prepare this chocolate ganache cake and enjoy the final result – a dessert that will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Enjoy!