Ingredients
Liquid Base
Cocoa Products
![Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix, 18.2 OZ Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix, 18.2 OZ](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B00L2MWLMK.jpg)
![Lindt EXCELLENCE 70% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar, Dark Chocolate Candy, 3.5 oz. (12 Pack) Lindt EXCELLENCE 70% Cocoa Dark Chocolate Bar, Dark Chocolate Candy, 3.5 oz. (12 Pack)](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B000H26J7E.jpg)
![Krusteaz Triple Chocolate Chunk Cookie Mix, Bakery Style, 3 Kinds of Chocolate, 15.5 Oz Boxes (Pack of 12) Krusteaz Triple Chocolate Chunk Cookie Mix, Bakery Style, 3 Kinds of Chocolate, 15.5 Oz Boxes (Pack of 12)](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B013KRUX10.jpg)
![Better Shea Butter Raw Cocoa Butter - Unrefined, 100% Pure, Food Grade - Use for Cocoa Lip Balm, Stretch Marks Cream, Cacao Butter Cream, Scars Oil, Whipped Lotion - Skin & Hair Moisturizer 1LB Block Better Shea Butter Raw Cocoa Butter - Unrefined, 100% Pure, Food Grade - Use for Cocoa Lip Balm, Stretch Marks Cream, Cacao Butter Cream, Scars Oil, Whipped Lotion - Skin & Hair Moisturizer 1LB Block](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B00L3FP10K.jpg)
![Mary Tylor Naturals Organic Cocoa Butter 1 lb — USDA Certified Raw Unrefined, Non-Deodorized, Rich In Antioxidants — for DIY Recipes, Lip Balms, Lotions, Creams, Stretch Marks Mary Tylor Naturals Organic Cocoa Butter 1 lb — USDA Certified Raw Unrefined, Non-Deodorized, Rich In Antioxidants — for DIY Recipes, Lip Balms, Lotions, Creams, Stretch Marks](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B07J532BC5.jpg)
![Essential Depot Cocoa Butter - Raw - Unrefined - 100% Pure - Natural Cocoa Scent - 4 lbs - Used in Creams, Lotion Bars and Sticks, Lip Balms, Body Butters and many other skin care products Essential Depot Cocoa Butter - Raw - Unrefined - 100% Pure - Natural Cocoa Scent - 4 lbs - Used in Creams, Lotion Bars and Sticks, Lip Balms, Body Butters and many other skin care products](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B094BY2FQY.jpg)
Additional Ingredients
![50 Organic Madagascar Vanilla Beans. Whole Grade A Vanilla Pods for Vanilla Extract and Baking 50 Organic Madagascar Vanilla Beans. Whole Grade A Vanilla Pods for Vanilla Extract and Baking](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B00PMUNF5A.jpg)
![50 Organic Grade A Madagascar Vanilla Beans. Certified USDA Organic for Extract and all things Vanilla by FITNCLEAN VANILLA. ~5" Bulk Fresh Bourbon NON-GMO Pods. 50 Organic Grade A Madagascar Vanilla Beans. Certified USDA Organic for Extract and all things Vanilla by FITNCLEAN VANILLA. ~5" Bulk Fresh Bourbon NON-GMO Pods.](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B09SNVYF9X.jpg)
![Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract for Baking and Cooking, 4 Ounce Bottle Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract for Baking and Cooking, 4 Ounce Bottle](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B0000VLU0I.jpg)
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium saucepan, pour *heavy cream* and *milk*. Heat over medium heat until the edges begin to simmer but not boil. Watch carefully and stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
Step 2
Place the *chopped dark chocolate* and *cocoa butter* in a heatproof bowl. Once the liquid base is heated, pour it over the *chocolate mixture*. Let it sit for a moment to begin melting.
Step 3
Using a spatula, start stirring the *chocolate* and *liquid* together gently. Start from the center and work your way out, ensuring a smooth and emulsified ganache. This might take a few minutes.
Step 4
Add the *vanilla extract* to the ganache. If you wish, mix in the *praline paste* and *liqueur* for an extra flavor profile. Stir until well combined.
Step 5
The ganache is now ready to be used for glazing cakes, filling tarts, or piping onto desserts. Allow it to cool for different consistencies. *Store any unused ganache* in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Servings
Layer Cake Coating: 🥮 Use your ganache to cover a multi-layer cake. Its stability ensures it won't melt away even on warm days, maintaining a sleek, appetizing appearance.
Decadent Filling for Pastries: 🥐 Imagine biting into a crispy macaron or a charming tart and finding an exquisite burst of creamy ganache. The possibilities are endless with flavors like *champagne* or *cheese*!
Decorate like a Pro: 🎨 Whip your ganache to create fluffy peaks for decorating or let it drip elegantly over cakes for a showstopping look.
Indulge Directly: 🍮 Don't underestimate ganache as a standalone dessert. Serve with a sprinkle of sea salt or fresh fruits for a delightful culinary experience.
Equipment
Choose a heatproof bowl to safely handle the hot cream when making ganache.
![YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B08GY36VVJ.jpg)
![Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B00LGLHUA0.jpg)
![REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful) REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful)](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B07D3NRLML.jpg)
A whisk is invaluable for achieving a smooth and silky texture in your ganache.
![OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B00004OCNS.jpg)
![Walfos Silicone Whisk,Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3 -Heat Resistant 480°F Kitchen Whisks for Non-stick Cookware,Balloon Egg Beater Perfect for Blending,Whisking,Beating,Frothing & Stirring,Black Walfos Silicone Whisk,Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3 -Heat Resistant 480°F Kitchen Whisks for Non-stick Cookware,Balloon Egg Beater Perfect for Blending,Whisking,Beating,Frothing & Stirring,Black](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B08HMXNKL4.jpg)
![Pack of 2 Danish Dough Whisk Blender Dutch Bread Whisk Hook Wooden Hand Mixer Sourdough Baking Tools for Cake Bread Pizza Pastry Biscuits Tool Stainless Steel Ring 13.5 inches 0.22 lb/pcs… Pack of 2 Danish Dough Whisk Blender Dutch Bread Whisk Hook Wooden Hand Mixer Sourdough Baking Tools for Cake Bread Pizza Pastry Biscuits Tool Stainless Steel Ring 13.5 inches 0.22 lb/pcs…](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B06ZYLPDYV.jpg)
Use a spatula to ensure you scrape every last bit of that delicious ganache goodness.
![HOTEC Food Grade Silicone Rubber Spatula Set for Baking, Cooking, and Mixing High Heat Resistant Non Stick Dishwasher Safe BPA-Free Multicolor Set of 5 HOTEC Food Grade Silicone Rubber Spatula Set for Baking, Cooking, and Mixing High Heat Resistant Non Stick Dishwasher Safe BPA-Free Multicolor Set of 5](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B084H89YLC.jpg)
![Wilton Icing Spatula - 13-Inch Angled Cake Spatula for Smoothing Frosting on Treats or Spreading Filling Between Cake Layers, Steel Wilton Icing Spatula - 13-Inch Angled Cake Spatula for Smoothing Frosting on Treats or Spreading Filling Between Cake Layers, Steel](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B00F0A6FYU.jpg)
![Metal Spatula Stainless Steel and Scraper - Professional Chef Griddle Spatulas Set of 3 - Heavy Duty Accessories Great for Cast Iron BBQ Flat Top Grill Skillet Pan - Commercial Grade Metal Spatula Stainless Steel and Scraper - Professional Chef Griddle Spatulas Set of 3 - Heavy Duty Accessories Great for Cast Iron BBQ Flat Top Grill Skillet Pan - Commercial Grade](https://1mincake.azureedge.net/affiliate/B072MXWDD6.jpg)
Accurate measurements are key, especially when dealing with chocolate and cream ratios.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option: 🌾 Looking to keep it gluten-free? You're in luck! Ganache itself is naturally gluten-free, but make sure all flavored additives and related pastries are free from gluten as well.
Vegan Variation: 🌱 Swap out the cream for coconut milk or another plant-based milk to create a luscious *vegan ganache*. For the chocolate, opt for a dairy-free alternative. Don't presume sacrificing flavor for ethics—this variation is just as rich and delightful!
Faq
- Why doesn't my ganache have a shiny finish?
A glossy finish often depends on the quality and temperature of chocolate and cream. Ensure both are at the right temperature and give it a slow, gentle stir for the best sheen.
- Can I fix my ganache if it broke?
Yes, you can! Add a little warm milk or cream and gently stir. It should emulsify back into a smooth texture.
- How can I add flavors to my ganache?
Infuse flavors by steeping ingredients like vanilla beans or lavender in the cream before using, or add extracts when mixing.
- How do I achieve different consistencies of ganache?
For a thicker ganache, use a higher chocolate-to-cream ratio. Alternatively, chill the ganache and whip it for a fluffier texture.
- How long can I store ganache?
Ganache can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months.
- Can I reheat my ganache?
Yes, gently reheat using a water bath (bain-marie) or a microwave in short intervals to conserve its texture and shine.