Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety layers of this classic French opera cake. A symphony of coffee-infused sponge, silky chocolate ganache, and light almond buttercream make every bite a delectable delight.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and granulated sugar. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Gently fold the egg mixture into the flour mixture until just combined. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Beat in the almond extract.
- Cut the cooled cake in half horizontally to create two thin layers. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread with half of the chocolate ganache. Top with the second cake layer and spread with the remaining ganache.
- Pipe or spread the almond buttercream over the top and sides of the cake. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Opera Cake, French Dessert, Chocolate Cake