Decadent Chocolate Ganache Cake Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you ready to bake the most rich, luscious, and irresistible chocolate ganache cake? This recipe will guide you through creating a dessert that will leave your taste buds singing. We'll cover everything from the perfect chocolate cake base to a glossy, decadent ganache that will elevate your baking game. Prepare for compliments galore!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is broken down into two parts: the chocolate cake and the chocolate ganache.
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed hot coffee
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 2 cups (240g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
Baking the Perfect Chocolate Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
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Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix!
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Coffee Infusion: Slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing on low speed. The coffee adds amazing depth of flavor to the cake.
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Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Creating the Decadent Chocolate Ganache:
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Heat the Cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
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Melt the Chocolate: Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the chocolate.
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Whisk it Smooth: Gently whisk the mixture until it's smooth and creamy.
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Incorporate Butter: Add the butter, one cube at a time, whisking until fully incorporated and the ganache is glossy and smooth.
Assembling Your Masterpiece:
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Level the Cakes: Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary, creating even layers.
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Frosting Time: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread half of the ganache evenly over the top.
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Layer & Frost: Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining ganache.
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Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set. This will result in a beautiful, firm frosting.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your ganache.
This decadent chocolate ganache cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging in a little bit of chocolate heaven. Enjoy! Remember to share your baking creations and tag us using #ChocolateGanacheCake. Happy baking!