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