Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake is a delightful dessert that will impress your guests at any gathering. This cake is known for its rich flavor and incredibly moist texture, making it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a cozy evening at home. With a luscious chocolate buttercream frosting and decorative Chocolate Crispearls, this cake stands out as a true crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder creates an intense chocolate experience.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and hot coffee, this cake remains moist and tender even days after baking.
- Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions ensure that even beginner bakers can successfully create this masterpiece.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite flavors or toppings to personalize the cake for special occasions.
- Impressive Presentation: The rich frosting and elegant decorations make it visually stunning for any event.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to streamline your efforts. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake without any distractions.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
- 9-inch round cake pans: Perfect size for achieving even layers that bake consistently throughout.
- Rubber spatula: Great for folding ingredients together gently without deflating the batter.
Ingredients
Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake is so decadent and incredibly tender. It has a rich chocolate buttercream frosting and is topped with Chocolate Crispearls for decoration.
For the Cake:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cups cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
For the Frosting:
- 6 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate (chopped)
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 2 teaspoons hot water
How to Make Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans
Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with vegetable oil. Lightly dust them with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Buttermilk
3. Beaten eggs
4. Vanilla extract
Stir until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Cocoa powder
4. Baking soda
5. Baking powder
6. Salt
Mix until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Once combined, slowly pour in the hot coffee until smooth.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Remove from the oven and allow cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
Melt the chopped semi-sweet chocolate over a double boiler or in short bursts in a microwave. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with room temperature butter until creamy.
Continue adding:
– Egg yolk
– Vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar
Beat until smooth, then dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water before adding them to the frosting mixture.
Step 9: Assemble Your Cake
Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, then add the second layer. Frost the top and sides as desired, finishing with Chocolate Crispearls for decoration.
Enjoy every bite of Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake!
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
Serving Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake is an opportunity to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve this decadent dessert.
Simple Slice
- Serve a classic slice of the cake on its own for those who appreciate the pure chocolate flavor.
With Fresh Berries
- Adding fresh raspberries or strawberries brings a fruity contrast that complements the sweetness of the cake.
A La Mode
- Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy, dreamy addition that enhances the chocolate experience.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds an extra layer of richness and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Garnished with Whipped Cream
- Light whipped cream can lighten the dessert, making it less indulgent while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavors.
How to Perfect Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
To achieve the ultimate version of Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake, consider these helpful tips for baking success.
- Use fresh ingredients – Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for optimal leavening.
- Sift cocoa powder – Sifting prevents lumps in your batter and ensures a smooth texture.
- Cool completely – Allow the cake layers to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting your buttercream.
- Chill frosting – If your frosting is too soft, chill it briefly before applying for easier spreading.
- Layer evenly – When stacking, ensure each layer is even for a professional-looking cake.
- Experiment with flavors – Consider adding a splash of espresso to deepen the chocolate flavor even more.
Best Side Dishes for Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
Pairing side dishes with Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
- Coffee – Brewed coffee enhances chocolate flavors and offers a bitter contrast.
- Chocolate Mousse – For true chocolate lovers, add another layer of chocolate indulgence.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad with citrus notes can refresh the palate after rich cake.
- Cheese Platter – Sharp cheeses like aged cheddar can provide a savory balance.
- Nut Mix – Roasted nuts add crunch and contrast, making for an interesting bite alongside cake.
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzling extra caramel brings out sweet notes in both cake and sauce.
- Mint Tea – Cooling mint tea offers a refreshing finish after enjoying rich desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a perfect Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can prevent your cake from rising properly. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and improper measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough cake. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
- Skipping the coffee: Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor significantly. Don’t skip this ingredient if you want a rich taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake:
What makes Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake so moist?
The combination of buttermilk and oil helps keep the cake moist and tender.
Can I substitute ingredients in Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake?
Yes, you can use almond milk instead of buttermilk or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, but this may slightly alter the taste.
How can I decorate Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake?
You can use chocolate curls, fresh berries, or additional frosting decorations like sprinkles or edible flowers.
How long does it take to make Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake?
The total time is about 58 minutes, including preparation and baking.
Final Thoughts
Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake is not only decadent but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various frostings or toppings to suit any occasion. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 58 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the richness of Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake, a decadent dessert that promises to impress at any gathering. With its moist texture and intense chocolate flavor, this cake is perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. Topped with a luscious chocolate buttercream frosting and adorned with elegant Chocolate Crispearls, it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures even novice bakers can create a masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
- 6 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate (chopped)
- 1 cup butter (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
- 2 teaspoons hot water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed; slowly incorporate hot coffee until smooth.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for about 38 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Melt chopped semi-sweet chocolate over a double boiler or in short bursts in a microwave. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with room temperature butter until creamy.
- Continue adding egg yolk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar; beat until smooth.
- Dissolve instant coffee granules in hot water before adding them to the frosting mixture.
- Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, then add the second layer. Frost the top and sides as desired, finishing with Chocolate Crispearls for decoration.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 377
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 345mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
