Raspberry Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe
For the Chocolate Sponge:
- 4 eggs
- 50 g sugar (about ¼ cup)
- 50 g flour (about ⅓ cup)
- 30 g cocoa powder (about 3 tablespoons)
For the Raspberry Filling:
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 200 g raspberries (about 1½ cups)
- 30 g sugar (about 2 tablespoons)
- 15 g cornstarch (about 1 tablespoon)
For the Cream Filling:
- 80 g condensed milk (about ⅓ cup)
- 100 g ricotta cheese (about ½ cup)
- 100 ml whipping cream (about ⅓ cup)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 120 g dark chocolate (about 4.2 oz), chopped
- 100 ml warm cream (about ⅓ cup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chocolate Sponge
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a rectangular or square cake pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and has almost doubled in volume. This can take about 5-7 minutes using an electric mixer.
Sift the flour and cocoa powder together to avoid any lumps, and carefully fold them into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to avoid knocking out the air from the eggs, which helps the sponge stay light and fluffy.
Once combined, pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing it horizontally into two even layers.
2. Prepare the Raspberry Filling
In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, raspberries, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. As the raspberries break down, their tartness will perfectly balance the sweetness of the sugar.
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add it to the simmering raspberry mixture. Stir constantly until the filling thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
3. Prepare the Cream Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the condensed milk with the ricotta cheese until smooth and well blended.
In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the ricotta mixture carefully, creating a light and fluffy cream filling. Set it aside until ready to use.
4. Assemble the Cake
Place the first layer of the chocolate sponge cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the cooled raspberry filling evenly across the surface.
Next, spread a layer of the cream filling over the raspberry layer. The cream adds a rich, smooth texture that complements the tart raspberries.
Gently place the second layer of the chocolate sponge on top, pressing down lightly to ensure the layers adhere together.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
For the ganache, chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the cream until it’s warm but not boiling. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate and let it sit for about 1 minute. Then, stir the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. The ganache should be glossy and thick enough to coat the cake.
6. Coat the Cake
Pour the chocolate ganache over the assembled cake, starting in the center and allowing it to naturally drip down the sides. Use a spatula to smooth out the ganache for an even coating if needed.
Let the ganache set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. You can also place the cake in the refrigerator to speed up the process if desired.
7. Serve
Slice the cake into individual portions and serve. The combination of the rich, moist chocolate sponge, the tart raspberry filling, and the smooth cream filling, all wrapped in luscious dark chocolate ganache, creates a stunning dessert that’s both visually and flavorfully impressive.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Sugar: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 60 mg