Indulge in Decadence: BBC Good Food's Irresistible Chocolate Cake Recipe

Indulge in Decadence: BBC Good Food's Irresistible Chocolate Cake Recipe

If you're a chocolate lover, then this recipe is for you. The BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake is the epitome of indulgence and decadence. With its rich and moist texture, it will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this chocolate cake is sure to impress. So let's dive into the world of chocolatey goodness and discover how to create this irresistible dessert.

Ingredients required for the chocolate cake

To create the ultimate chocolate cake, you will need the following ingredients:

- 200g unsalted butter, softened

- 200g golden caster sugar

- 4 large eggs

- 200g self-raising flour

- 50g cocoa powder

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 100ml milk

These simple yet essential ingredients form the base of this decadent treat. Make sure to have them all ready before you embark on your chocolatey journey!

Step-by-step instructions for preparing the cake batter

1. Start by preheating your oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Grease and line two 20cm/8in round cake tins with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 200g softened unsalted butter and 200g golden caster sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Gradually add in 4 beaten eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add in a teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.

4. Sift in 200g self-raising flour, 50g cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt into the bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined.

5. Pour in 75ml whole milk and mix until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix as this can result in a dense cake.

6. Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Once baked, remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Follow these simple steps to create a moist and delicious chocolate cake batter that will be the foundation of your decadent creation!

Baking and cooling the chocolate cake

Once you have prepared the cake batter, it's time to bake and cool the chocolate cake. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins with butter or cooking spray.

Divide the cake batter equally between the two tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in their tins for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Allowing the cakes to cool completely is crucial before frosting them. This ensures that the frosting will adhere properly without melting or sliding off. It also helps to lock in moisture, resulting in a moist and tender cake.

While waiting for the cakes to cool, you can proceed with making the chocolate ganache frosting. Once both cakes are completely cooled, you can then assemble and decorate your irresistible chocolate cake.

Making the chocolate ganache frosting

To make the luscious chocolate ganache frosting for the BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake, you will need 200g of dark chocolate and 200ml of double cream. Begin by breaking the dark chocolate into small pieces and placing them in a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan, heat the double cream until it just starts to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Then, stir gently until all the chocolate has melted and you have a smooth, glossy ganache. Allow it to cool slightly before spreading it generously over the cooled cake layers. The rich and velvety ganache adds an extra layer of decadence to this already irresistible chocolate cake.

Decorating the cake with the chocolate ganache

After the chocolate cake has cooled completely, it's time to take it to the next level by decorating it with a luscious chocolate ganache frosting. Here's how you can do it:

1. Start by preparing the chocolate ganache. In a heatproof bowl, add 200g of dark chocolate (chopped) and pour 200ml of double cream over it.

2. Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure that the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir gently until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.

3. Remove the bowl from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Once the ganache has slightly thickened, pour it over the top of the cooled cake in a circular motion, allowing it to drizzle down the sides naturally.

5. Use a palette knife or an offset spatula to spread and smooth out the ganache evenly across the surface of the cake.

6. For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish with some grated chocolate or sprinkle cocoa powder on top.

7. Allow the ganache to set for at least 30 minutes before serving.

The rich and velvety chocolate ganache adds an indulgent layer of flavor and texture to this already decadent cake. It not only enhances its visual appeal but also intensifies its taste, making every bite truly irresistible. So go ahead and adorn your BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake with this heavenly ganache frosting for a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone craving for more!

Tips and variations for the BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake

Tips and Variations for the BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake:

1. For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the cake batter. This will enhance the chocolate taste and give it a subtle mocha twist.

2. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour. This will result in a softer and more delicate crumb.

3. To make this cake even more indulgent, you can add some chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds to the batter. They will provide a delightful crunch and complement the chocolatey goodness.

4. For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some grated orange zest to the cake batter. The citrusy notes will beautifully balance out the richness of the chocolate.

5. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache frosting. Dark chocolate will give a bittersweet intensity, while milk chocolate will lend a creamier and sweeter taste.

6. To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

7. Feel free to get creative with your decorations! You can sprinkle some cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top of the frosted cake for an elegant finish. Or, if you want to take it up a notch, adorn it with fresh berries or edible flowers.

These tips and variations are just suggestions to help you personalize your BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake experience. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

In conclusion, the BBC Good Food Chocolate Cake recipe is a true indulgence for chocolate lovers. With its rich and moist texture, it is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of the velvety chocolate cake and the decadent chocolate ganache frosting creates a heavenly treat that is hard to resist. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So go ahead and indulge in the decadence of this irresistible chocolate cake – you won't be disappointed!