There’s something irresistibly comforting about a Chocolate Fudge Cake with Ganache. This decadent dessert has the power to bring a smile to anyone’s face with its rich layers and smooth, glossy finish. It was a delightful weekend when I decided to make this cake for a family gathering, and the reactions were nothing short of heartwarming. As the cake sat on the dining table, everyone seemed drawn to it, like moths to a flame. The moment the first slice was cut, the room filled with an enchanting aroma of chocolate, and it was clear that this cake was about to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To create this heavenly Chocolate Fudge Cake with Ganache, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- For the Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Creating this cake is a labor of love, but the process is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a perfect Chocolate Fudge Cake with Ganache:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Incorporate boiling water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
- Pour and 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. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to cool completely.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, and pour the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake. Use a spatula to smooth the ganache for a glossy finish.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to allow the ganache to set before serving.
Nutrition Facts
This Chocolate Fudge Cake with Ganache is intended to serve 12 people. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, making it a delightful treat perfect for special occasions.
Preparation Time
The total preparation time for this cake, including cooling and setting, is around 2 hours. Active cooking time is about 45 minutes, while the rest is mostly allowing the cake and ganache to cool and set properly.
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How to Serve
Serving this cake can be as creative or as simple as you wish. Here are a few ideas to elevate the presentation and taste:
- With Fresh Berries: Top the cake with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of color and added freshness.
- With Whipped Cream: Serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness of the chocolate.
- With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and delightful combination.
- With Coffee: Enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee to complement the rich flavors of the cake.
- With a Dusting of Cocoa: Lightly dust the top with cocoa powder for a professional finish.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Chocolate Fudge Cake with Ganache turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
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- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and milk, are at room temperature to mix more evenly.
- Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache, as it greatly affects the flavor and texture.
- Chill the Ganache: If the ganache is too runny, let it cool slightly before spreading to achieve the desired thickness.
- Smooth Finish: Use a cake scraper or a long knife to smooth the ganache for a professional look.
- Cut Clean Slices: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean before each cut for neat slices.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Chocolate Fudge Cake with Ganache:
- Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. Assemble with ganache on the day of serving.
- How should I store leftovers? Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow slices to come to room temperature before serving.
- Can I freeze this cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream in the ganache? You can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative, but it will slightly alter the flavor and texture.
- Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache? Certainly! Milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate can be used for a sweeter ganache. Adjust the amount of sugar in the cake if needed.