Moist Chocolate Cake: A Dreamy Dessert for Chocolate Lovers 🍫✨
Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly moist, rich chocolate cake topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. This dessert is a true crowd-pleaser, ideal for any celebration or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow this simple recipe and prepare to impress everyone at the table! 🤤
Ingredients 🥄
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 eggs 🥚
- ½ cup milk 🥛
- ¼ cup oil
- ½ cup hot water 💧
For the Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 200 g dark chocolate, chopped
- Sugar to taste (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the batter:
- Beat the eggs until they double in size and become frothy. Gradually add sugar while beating until the mixture resembles meringue.
2. Mix the wet ingredients:
- Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients:
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold these into the wet mixture using gentle, circular motions.
4. Incorporate hot water:
- Add hot water slowly while mixing at low speed until the batter is smooth and runny.
5. Bake the cake:
- Pour the batter into a greased 20 cm (8-inch) cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Make the ganache:
- Heat heavy cream in a double boiler and add chopped chocolate. Stir until fully melted and glossy. Sweeten with sugar if desired.
7. Decorate:
- Let the cake cool completely, then pour the ganache over it. Use a spatula to spread evenly or let it drip for a rustic look.
Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Cake
- Choose quality cocoa: Opt for unsweetened, high-quality cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients: Eggs, milk, and other ingredients at room temperature blend better and create a smoother batter.
- Avoid overmixing: When combining the dry ingredients, mix gently to avoid developing gluten, which can make the cake dense.
- Check for doneness early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking the cake 5-7 minutes before the stated baking time.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Cake is too dense:
- Make sure to sift the dry ingredients and don’t overmix the batter.
2. Ganache doesn’t set:
- Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake. If it’s too runny, chill it for a few minutes to thicken.
3. Cake sticks to the pan:
- Always grease the pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the oil with butter?
Yes, but oil gives the cake a lighter and more tender crumb. Butter will add a richer flavor but may result in a denser texture.
How long can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Time & Servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 50 minutes
- Serves: 8
- Calories: ~320 kcal per slice
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