Description
Chocolate Ganache Drip Cake
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee
For the Buttercream Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream
For Decoration:
Chocolate shavings
Chocolate buttercream swirls
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until combined, then slowly add hot coffee and mix again. Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let cool completely.
For frosting, beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla, and beat until smooth. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake layers.
For ganache, heat heavy cream until hot (not boiling), then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
Decorate with chocolate shavings and buttercream swirls. Slice and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper circles. This guarantees easy release.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined and lump-free.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed until just combined, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the Coffee: Slowly pour in the hot coffee while mixing on low speed. The batter will be thin. Scrape down the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
5. 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.
6. Cool: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. They must be at room temperature before frosting.
7. Make Frosting & Assemble: Beat the softened butter until light and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla, beating until fluffy. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread with frosting, top with the second layer, and apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting over the entire cake. Chill for 20 minutes, then apply the final, smooth layer of frosting.
8. Create the Drip: Heat the 1/2 cup of heavy cream until steaming but not boiling. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir gently from the center outward until a smooth, glossy ganache forms. Let it cool and thicken slightly for 5-10 minutes.
9. Apply Ganache: Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, carefully drip the ganache from the top edge of the chilled cake. Once the drips are set, pour the remaining ganache on the center of the top and smooth it with an offset spatula.
10. Final Decoration: Immediately add chocolate shavings to the top edges and pipe buttercream swirls before the ganache fully sets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Pair with a glass of cold milk, a rich espresso, or a dessert wine like Port. For a special presentation, garnish individual plates with a dusting of cocoa powder, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
How-to Summary
To make a Chocolate Ganache Drip Cake: bake and cool two chocolate cake layers. Prepare a vanilla buttercream frosting and assemble the cake with a crumb coat. Chill. Create a simple ganache by pouring hot cream over chocolate chips and stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then carefully drip it over the chilled cake. Finish with chocolate shavings and buttercream swirls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time? Absolutely. Once completely cooled, wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
What can I use instead of buttermilk? Make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Why is my ganache too thick or too thin? If too thick, add a teaspoon of warm cream. If too thin, add a few more chocolate chips or let it cool longer. Consistency is key for perfect drips.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache? Yes, but it affects sweetness and texture. Semi-sweet is standard. Dark chocolate will be less sweet, while milk chocolate may be softer. Adjust cream ratio slightly for different types.
How do I store the finished cake? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let refrigerated slices come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Warm Cake Layers: Frosting a warm cake will cause the buttercream to melt and slide off. Ensure layers are completely cool.
- Over-mixing the Batter: Once you add the flour, mix only until combined. Over-mixing develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense cake.
- Applying Ganache to a Warm Cake: The ganache will melt and run off. Always chill the frosted cake for 20-30 minutes first.
- Using Boiling Cream for Ganache: Excessively hot cream can cause the chocolate to “seize” and become grainy. Heat cream until just steaming.
- Rushing the Drip: Test your ganache consistency on the side of the bowl or a glass before applying to the cake. It should be fluid but not watery.
Conclusion
Mastering the Chocolate Ganache Drip Cake is a rewarding achievement for any baker. By following the detailed steps, understanding the science behind the ingredients, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a stunning, professional-looking dessert that is as delicious as it is impressive. This cake is perfect for celebrations, a baking challenge, or simply indulging in a truly decadent chocolate experience. Happy baking!