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Perfect Celebration Cake

A rich dark chocolate cake layered with fresh berries and creamy ganache, perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Continental
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 440 g dark (70%) chocolate, chopped High-quality chocolate is recommended for best flavor.
  • 250 g egg yolks (about 15-16 large eggs)
  • 440 g caster sugar
  • 400 g egg whites (about 11-12 large eggs) Ensure no water or grease contaminates the mixing bowl.
  • 1 tbsp brandy
For the Ganache
  • 300 g white chocolate, chopped
  • 300 ml thickened cream To be heated with the white chocolate.
For Decoration
  • 200 g blueberries Use fresh, seasonal berries for best flavor.
  • 200 g blackberries
  • 200 g raspberries
  • 200 g strawberries, trimmed and thinly sliced lengthwise
  • Icing sugar, to dust (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius (155 degrees fan-forced). Grease three 23cm x 30cm lipped baking trays and line them with baking paper.
  2. Melt the dark chocolate in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Remove it from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. In a stand mixer, combine the egg yolks and caster sugar. Mix on high speed for five minutes until thick and pale.
  4. Fold the thickened mixture into the cooled dark chocolate.
  5. In another clean stand mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Fold them gently into the chocolate mixture along with the brandy.
  6. Divide the mixture among the prepared trays and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
Making the Ganache
  1. Combine the white chocolate and thickened cream in a saucepan. Heat until steaming, then pour it over the chocolate, stirring until melted.
  2. Refrigerate the ganache overnight.
Assembly
  1. When ready to serve, whip the chilled ganache with cream until soft peaks appear.
  2. Mix the berries gently, setting aside one cup for decoration.
  3. Layer the cooled cakes with ganache and berries, topping with reserved fruits and icing sugar if desired.
  4. Chill the cake in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Use fresh seasonal berries for optimal flavor and color. Allow the ganache to cool completely before whipping for perfect consistency.