Description
Classic Opera Cake is a luxurious dessert that features layers of almond sponge cake soaked in coffee, rich chocolate ganache, and a creamy filling, making it a perfect treat for special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined. Then fold in the melted butter and vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly.
- Once the cake is cool, slice it into three equal layers. Brush each layer with the brewed coffee mixed with coffee liqueur if using.
- Place the first layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of ganache over it, then add the second layer of cake. Repeat the process with the second layer and top with the final layer of cake.
- Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- For a decorative touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before slicing.
Notes
- For a fruit twist, add a layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between the cake layers.
- Substitute the coffee liqueur with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg