Rich and decadent chocolate cake with silky ganache

This rich and decadent chocolate cake captures the essence of what a true chocolate cake should be. Infused with a hint of coffee and topped with a silky chocolate ganache, this cake offers a moist and flavorful base with a creamy and luxurious filling. Each bite is a deep dive into chocolate heaven, perfect for any chocolate lover looking for a satisfying dessert.

Why you'll love this:

• Deep Chocolate Flavor: The combination of cocoa and coffee enhances the flavor of chocolate, making it rich and full-bodied.
• Smooth and silky ganache: The ganache filling adds a velvety texture and a rich chocolate layer that perfectly complements the moist cake.
• Versatile and customizable: This cake serves as a fantastic base for various decorations or can be enjoyed in its pure and simple form.

Perfect opportunity: This chocolate cake is perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries or any other special occasion. It is also perfect for a weekend baking project to treat yourself and your family to something truly special.

Decorating tips:

• Sprinkle with cocoa powder: For a refined finish, lightly dust the top with cocoa powder once the ganache has set.
• Add fresh berries: Garnish with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
• Chocolate chips : Garnish with chocolate shavings or chips to enhance the chocolate experience.

Ingredients:

• Cake:
  • 130g hot water
  • 1 teaspoon instant coffee
  • 40 g cocoa powder
  • 120 g softened butter
  • 120 g of oil
  • 120 g sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 eggs
  • 200 g of milk
  • 1 tablespoon of cooking vinegar
  • 280 g all-purpose flour
  • 6 g baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Ganache:
  • 300 g whipping cream
  • 300 g chopped dark chocolate
  • 50 g butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 20cm cake tin.
   • Mix hot water, cocoa powder and instant coffee. Let cool.
   • In a large bowl, beat together the butter, oil, sugar and vanilla. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the milk and vinegar.
   • Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Mix until smooth.
   • Stir in the cooled cocoa mixture.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool, then cut it horizontally into two layers.
2. Prepare the ganache:
   • Bring the cream to a boil and then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes and then stir until smooth.
   • Add the butter and mix until completely incorporated.
   • Let the ganache set at room temperature until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
3. Assemble the cake:
   • Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache, then cover it with the second layer of cake.
   • Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache.
   • Decorate as desired and let stand before serving.

Enjoy this indulgent chocolate cake, a perfect treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the elegance of a simple yet breathtaking presentation!