Description
A classic French dessert, Opera Cake is a luxurious layered almond sponge cake soaked with coffee buttercream and topped with a rich chocolate glaze. This elegant cake combines delicate textures and bold flavors, making it perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Almond Sponge Cake
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
Coffee Buttercream
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee
- Optional: powdered sugar to thicken
Chocolate Glaze
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Whip Eggs and Sugar: In a bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar vigorously for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and fluffy. This creates a light sponge texture.
- Fold in Flours: Gently fold the almond flour and all-purpose flour into the egg mixture, taking care not to deflate the airy batter.
- Bake the Sponge: Pour the batter evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Slice into Layers: Once cooled, carefully slice the sponge into three even layers for assembling the cake.
- Prepare Coffee Buttercream: Combine melted butter and brewed coffee to create the buttercream. Add powdered sugar if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer the sponge cakes by spreading the coffee buttercream evenly between each layer to build the multi-layered cake.
- Make Chocolate Glaze: Heat the dark chocolate and heavy cream together until smooth, forming a glossy glaze. Let it cool slightly so it’s pourable but not too hot.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the assembled cake, spreading evenly to cover the surface.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the glaze to set and flavors to meld before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the eggs and sugar are whipped thoroughly to achieve a light and airy sponge.
- Be gentle when folding flours to maintain the batter’s volume.
- You can add powdered sugar to the coffee buttercream to adjust thickness based on preference.
- Use good quality dark chocolate for a rich glaze.
- Refrigeration is key to help the flavors meld and to get clean slices.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
