Description
Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake
Ingredients:
2 cups cake flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 ½ cups coconut sugar
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
3 eggs
1 cup coconut milk
½ cup melted white chocolate
1 tsp hazelnut extract
1 cup boiling water
Filling & Frosting:
2 cups mascarpone cream
½ cup icing sugar
1 tsp caramel extract
1 ½ cups hazelnut chocolate ganache
1 cup caramelized chocolate pearls
6 chocolate-covered hazelnuts
4 milk chocolate sticks
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare pans.
Mix flour, cocoa, sugar, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
Whisk eggs, coconut milk, melted chocolate, and hazelnut extract. Combine with dry ingredients.
Stir in boiling water and mix gently.
Bake for 35 minutes. Let cool.
Whip mascarpone, sugar, and caramel extract.
Layer cakes with mascarpone and ganache.
Coat cake with frosting.
Garnish with pearls, hazelnuts, and chocolate sticks.
Finish with ganache drizzle.
#HeavenlyChocolateCake
Vous avez dit :
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Sift together the cake flour, cocoa powder, coconut sugar, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, coconut milk, melted white chocolate, and hazelnut extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing just until combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin. Divide evenly between the pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate it further. Serve each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a coffee pairing, a strong espresso or a cup of dark roast coffee balances the sweetness beautifully. To present, use a warm knife for clean slices and garnish each plate with a dusting of cocoa powder or a swirl of salted caramel sauce.
How-to Summary
In brief: Prepare pans and oven. Mix dry ingredients, then combine with wet ingredients. Incorporate boiling water for a moist batter. Bake and cool completely. Whip mascarpone with sugar and extract for the filling. Assemble layers with mascarpone and ganache. Frost the exterior and decorate with pearls, hazelnuts, chocolate sticks, and a final ganache drizzle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, but for a lighter crumb, make a substitute: for every cup of all-purpose flour, remove 2 tablespoons and replace with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
What can I use instead of hazelnut extract?
Pure vanilla extract is a fine alternative, or use Frangelico liqueur, reducing the coconut milk slightly to compensate for added liquid.
Why add boiling water?
The hot water blooms the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor, and helps create an exceptionally moist, tender cake texture.
How do I store this cake?
Due to the mascarpone frosting, store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let slices sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Can I make the layers ahead of time?
Absolutely. Wrap the completely cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw before assembling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Mix only until ingredients are combined after adding the wet to dry. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake.
- Assembling with warm layers: Ensure cakes are completely cool, or the filling and frosting will melt and slide.
- Using cold ingredients: Bring eggs and coconut milk to room temperature for better emulsion and a smoother batter.
- Neglecting to prepare pans: Properly greasing and lining prevents sticking and ensures easy release.
Conclusion
This Decadent Chocolate Layer Cake, with its rich flavors of hazelnut, caramel, and deep chocolate, is worth every step. The unique combination of ingredients creates a moist, sophisticated dessert perfect for celebrations. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you are guaranteed a stunning and delicious masterpiece that will impress any guest. Enjoy the process and the heavenly result.