Coffee cake with ganache cream

Coffee and ganache cake – an irresistible delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 5 hours (including cooling)
Number of servings: 12

Do you want a cake that combines the intense aroma of coffee with the sweetness of chocolate? This coffee and ganache cake is the perfect choice! Whether you serve it at a gathering with friends or want to indulge in a delicious dessert, this treat will surely please everyone.

The history of this cake is fascinating; over the years, the combination of coffee and chocolate has become a favorite in many cultures. In this recipe, we chose to combine the two ingredients to create an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients

*For the cake:*
- 5 large eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of ground coffee (preferably high quality)
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- A pinch of salt

*For the ganache:*
- 300 g of milk chocolate (or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor)
- 300 ml of liquid cream (make sure it is of good quality)
- Chocolate shavings (for decoration)

*For topping:*
- 300 ml of whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings (for additional decoration)

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the ganache
- Start by making the ganache, as it requires cooling time. Cut the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat the liquid cream in a saucepan over medium heat, being careful not to bring it to a boil. When it starts to steam, pour it hot over the chocolate in the bowl.
- Stir vigorously with a spatula or whisk until the chocolate completely melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 5 hours (ideally overnight).

2. Preparing the cake
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray (approximately 20x30 cm) by greasing it with oil and lining it with parchment paper.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.
- In another bowl, cream the yolks with the sugar and oil until the mixture is creamy and light in color. Add the water and ground coffee, mixing well.
- Gently fold in the beaten egg whites, using a spatula to preserve the air in the mixture.
- Sift the flour along with the baking powder over the egg mixture and add a pinch of salt. Gently mix until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Assembling the cake
- Once the cake is done, allow it to cool completely. Cut it in half horizontally to obtain two layers.
- Take the ganache out of the fridge and whip it with a mixer, starting at a low speed and gradually increasing until it becomes fluffy.
- Add the chocolate shavings and gently mix.
- Place the first layer of cake on a platter and spread an even layer of ganache on top. Then place the second layer of cake.
- Whip the cream for topping and spread it over the cake. Decorate with chocolate shavings for an attractive look.

4. Final cooling
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or longer if you have patience). This cooling time is essential for the flavors to blend perfectly.

Helpful tip: If you want to impress your guests, you can add a layer of berry jam between the two cake layers for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Nutritional benefits
This cake is a source of carbohydrates from the sugar and flour used, but also antioxidants from the chocolate. Coffee, on the other hand, can provide an energy boost due to its caffeine content. Of course, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate? Yes, dark chocolate will provide a more intense and less sweet flavor.
- How can I keep the cake longer? You can store it in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, but it's recommended to consume it within 3-4 days for freshness.
- What drinks pair well with this cake? A quality coffee or espresso is the perfect choice, but a glass of sweet red wine can also complement the flavors well.

Now that you have all the necessary details, I invite you to start cooking! Every bite will be an explosion of flavors due to the combination of coffee and chocolate, and your cake will surely become a favorite for everyone. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and tell them about this delicacy! Enjoy!