Festive Chocolate Mint Cake: Perfect for the Holidays

Festive Chocolate Mint Cake: Perfect for the Holidays

Celebrate the holiday season with this Festive Chocolate Mint Cake. With layers of rich chocolate sponge, creamy mint frosting, and a glossy ganache glaze, it’s decorated with chocolate curls, piped mint frosting, and crushed peppermint candies for a delightful festive touch. Here’s how to create this show-stopping dessert.


Ingredients

For the Chocolate Sponge:

  • 2 ½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (75g) cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Mint Frosting:

  • 2 cups (450g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 5 cups (600g) powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 ½ tsp peppermint extract
  • Green food coloring

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, chopped

For Garnish:

  • Crushed peppermint candies
  • Chocolate curls
  • Piped mint frosting swirls
  • Peppermint candies (optional)


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Sponge
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda.
  3. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually combine the dry and wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
  5. Divide the batter among the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Mint Frosting
  1. Beat the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
  2. Add peppermint extract, green food coloring, and heavy cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 3: Prepare the Ganache
  1. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
  2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
  1. Place a chocolate sponge layer on a cake stand. Spread an even layer of mint frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
  2. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting to the entire cake and chill for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Ganache Drip
  1. Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Decorate the Cake
  1. Pipe mint frosting swirls around the top edge of the cake.
  2. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies and chocolate curls over the top.
  3. Add peppermint candies for a festive finish.

Tips for Success

  • Chill the cake before adding the ganache to ensure smooth drips.
  • Use gel food coloring for a vibrant mint hue.
  • Serve the cake slightly chilled for the best texture and flavor.

This Festive Chocolate Mint Cake is a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Its rich flavors and eye-catching design will impress your guests and bring a festive touch to your table. Try it today and enjoy the holiday cheer!

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