Chocolate cake Count’s Ruins is a rich, decadent dessert that combines chocolate with a touch of mystery and indulgence. Here’s a recipe that’s sure to impress:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)
For the Count’s Ruins Effect:
- ½ cup (50g) crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers (for the “ruins” effect)
- Edible gold leaf or gold dust (optional, for a touch of opulence)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).
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Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Ganache:
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Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
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Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften, then stir until smooth. If using, stir in the butter for extra shine. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.
3. Assemble the Cake:
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Level the Cakes: If necessary, level the tops of the cooled cakes with a knife to ensure an even surface.
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Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of ganache over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining ganache. Smooth the ganache with a spatula.
4. Create the Ruins Effect:
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Add Crushed Cookies: Sprinkle the crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers over the top and sides of the cake to mimic the appearance of ruins.
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Add Gold Touches: If desired, use edible gold leaf or gold dust to add a touch of opulence and create a more dramatic effect.
5. Serve:
- Let the cake set for about 30 minutes before slicing to allow the ganache to firm up a bit.
- Serve and enjoy the rich, chocolatey decadence!
This Chocolate Cake Count’s Ruins is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in a luxurious dessert. Enjoy!
