Noir (Recipe number 200!)

Delicious Black Cake Recipe

When it comes to desserts, nothing compares to a decadent chocolate cake! The Black Cake is a true indulgence for chocolate lovers, combining creamy layers and crunchy textures to create a memorable culinary experience. This recipe will not only impress your guests but will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s begin our journey into the world of sweet delights!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours (ideally overnight)
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:
For the biscuit base:
- 100 g cocoa biscuits (opt for high-quality ones for a more intense flavor)
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)

For the chocolate cream:
- 100 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa for a deep flavor)
- 150 g milk chocolate (for a sweet contrast)
- 300 ml heavy cream (make sure it is well chilled)
- 50 ml cherry liqueur (or another cherry liqueur for a touch of elegance)
- 20 g gelatin (to provide stability to the cream)

For decoration:
- 50 g butter/margarine
- 50 ml heavy cream
- 50 g dark chocolate
- 50 g milk chocolate
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional, for an extra intensity)
- White chocolate flakes (for a festive look)
- Chocolate candies (for a playful touch)

Recipe history:
The Black Cake is a modern reinterpretation of classic chocolate desserts, inspired by pastry traditions that blend chocolate with various textures and flavors. This recipe is based on the idea of creating a contrast between the crunchy biscuit base and the smooth chocolate cream, offering a complex and satisfying taste experience.

Step by Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the biscuit base:
Start by crushing the cocoa biscuits. You can use a food processor or, if you want a manual workout, place them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed biscuits with 75 g of butter (reserve the rest of the butter for later) until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

Practical tips: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation. If you prefer a crunchier base, you can add a little sugar (1-2 tablespoons).

2. Forming the base:
Transfer the biscuit mixture into a greased baking dish (approximately 20x30 cm) or lined with plastic wrap. Press the mixture down firmly with a spatula to form an even layer. Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so that the base hardens.

3. Preparing the chocolate cream:
Melt the dark chocolate and milk chocolate in a bowl over a water bath, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once melted, add the heavy cream and cherry liqueur, stirring until you have a homogeneous mixture.

Helpful trick: If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage.

4. Preparing the gelatin:
In a bowl, place the gelatin in 250 ml of cold water and let it soak for 10 minutes. Then, heat the gelatin over a water bath, stirring continuously until it completely dissolves.

5. Combining the ingredients:
Add the dissolved gelatin to the chocolate mixture and mix well to incorporate it. This step will ensure a smooth and creamy texture for the cream.

6. Assembling the cake:
Pour the chocolate cream over the cooled biscuit base. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and the cream to set perfectly.

7. Preparing the decoration cream:
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the decoration cream. Melt the dark chocolate and milk chocolate with the butter/margarine and heavy cream. Mix well until you have a homogeneous mixture.

8. Decorating the cake:
Once the cake has set, pour the warm chocolate cream on top. Decorate with white chocolate flakes and chocolate candies for a festive appearance.

9. Serving:
Cut the cake into squares and serve with great enthusiasm! It is delicious both on its own and alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
This delicious cake contains ingredients rich in antioxidants, such as dark chocolate, which is known for its beneficial effects on heart health. Additionally, heavy cream provides a calcium boost, while cocoa biscuits offer a quick energy dose.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of biscuit? Yes, you can experiment with vanilla biscuits or even whole grain biscuits for a healthier version.
2. What can I use instead of gelatin? You can try agar-agar for a vegetarian option, keeping in mind that an adjustment of the quantity is necessary.
3. How can I store the cake? You can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Complementary recipes:
This Black Cake pairs perfectly with a strong espresso or a creamy cappuccino. You can also try serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing touch.

In the end, I encourage you to put your personal touch on this recipe! Whether you choose to add a splash of coffee to the chocolate cream or replace the cherry liqueur with another favorite liqueur, each variation will bring a new charm to your cake. Remember, cooking is an art, and you are the artist! Enjoy!