Chocolate ganache cake

Chocolate ganache cake is a rich dessert featuring dark chocolate and sour cream, resulting in a decadent and moist cake. This straightforward recipe delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort, perfect for celebrations or a personal treat.

06 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 320 min

Ingredients:

1 cup dark chocolate
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup sugar
4 eggs
1 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 cup light sour cream

Chocolate ganache cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the intense flavor of dark chocolate with the creaminess of sour cream for a truly decadent experience. Perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself, this recipe is straightforward yet delivers a gourmet result.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Chocolate and Butter:
In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and butter. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until both chocolate and butter are melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar:
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes thick, light in color, and slightly fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

4. Combine Chocolate Mixture:
Gradually fold the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Mix gently to retain the volume created by whisking the eggs.

5. Add Flour:
Sift the all-purpose white wheat flour over the mixture and gently fold it in until fully incorporated.

6. Incorporate Sour Cream:
Lastly, fold in the light sour cream until the batter is smooth and homogeneous. Ensure all the ingredients are well combined but do not overmix.

7. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula if needed. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

8. Cool the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Optional Ganache Topping:
If desired, you can top the cake with a chocolate ganache. To make ganache, heat 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over 1 cup (230g) of chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then stir until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly and thicken before pouring it over the cooled cake.

10. Serve:
Once the cake is fully cooled and the ganache has set (if using), slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Ganache Cake!

Once you master this chocolate ganache cake recipe, you'll have a go-to dessert that's sure to impress. Its velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Chocolate ganache cake FAQ:

What size cake pan should I use for this recipe?

Use a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan for this Chocolate Ganache Cake. Grease it and line the bottom with parchment paper before pouring in the batter.

How long should I bake the cake and how do I know when it’s done?

Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. It's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I substitute the light sour cream in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute light sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture and slightly different flavor. Keep in mind this may alter the richness.

How should I store leftover chocolate ganache cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If chilled, allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

What type of dark chocolate is best to use for this cake?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa content for a rich flavor. Avoid baking chocolate, as it may not have the same depth of taste.

Cooking Tips:

- Use high-quality dark chocolate.: Opt for a dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to ensure a rich and intense chocolate flavor.

- Melt chocolate and butter gently.: Use a double boiler or a microwave in short bursts to melt the chocolate and butter together, preventing them from burning.

- Bring ingredients to room temperature.: Before starting, make sure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.

- Mix eggs and sugar thoroughly.: Whisk the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help to create a light texture in the final cake.

- Don't overmix the batter.: Once you add the flour and chocolate mixture, gently fold them into the egg mixture to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense cake.

- Use a parchment paper-lined cake pan.: Line your cake pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn't stick and comes out easily after baking.

- Check for doneness carefully.: Bake the cake until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, as overbaking can lead to a dry cake.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 4.29g
Sugar 18g
Fat 40g

Chocolate ganache cake