Rich Chocolate Cake with Ganache

Rich Chocolate Cake with Ganache

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75g) cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water or hot coffee (for extra richness)

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups (250g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra shine)

For Garnish:

• Chocolate shavings or curls

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
   • Gradually stir in the boiling water or hot coffee (the batter will be thin, but this is normal).
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
   • Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
3. Make the Ganache:
   • Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not boil).
   • Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
   • Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in butter for added shine.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled cake.
   • Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls.
5. Serve:
   • Slice the cake into squares and serve.