Dive into the luxurious world of chocolate with this Decadent Chocolate Ganache Torte. This dessert masterpiece features layers of moist chocolate cake paired with a rich ganache filling and topped with a glossy ganache glaze. Perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this torte promises to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Easy to prepare yet undeniably elegant, it’s a treat every chocolate lover must try.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cooling/Assembly Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (90g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Ganache:
- 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (240g) mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth and slightly thin.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Stir in the butter until melted and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly until it thickens but remains spreadable.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Torte
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake board. Spread a generous layer of mascarpone filling evenly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
- Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Use a spatula to spread it evenly for a smooth finish.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the assembled torte for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
This Decadent Chocolate Ganache Torte is the epitome of indulgence. Its combination of moist cake, creamy filling, and silky ganache makes it a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a personal treat, each bite is a testament to the irresistible power of chocolate.
Enjoy creating and savoring this heavenly dessert!