Ingredients

Sponge Cake

100 grams (0.5 cup) unsalted butter, melted
100 grams (0.5 cup) sugar
4 large eggs
100 grams (1 cup) almond flour
30 grams (0.25 cup) all-purpose flour
We recommend:
For unsalted butter:
Prime Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail
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(17,685) 4th & Heart Original Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto, Pasture Raised, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces) $11.49 View details Prime 4th & Heart Himalayan Pink Salt Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter, Keto Pasture Raised, Non-GMO, Lactose and Casein Free, Certified Paleo (9 Ounces)
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For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
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(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
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For almond flour:
Prime Anthony's Blanched Almond Flour, 2 lb, Finely Ground, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Vegan, Keto Friendly
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(32,029) PBfit Peanut Flour Baking Blend - Gluten Free & Non GMO - 10g Protein per Serving 8% DV - 80% Less Fat than Almond Flour - 1 to 1 Swap for White Flour - Light Peanut Flavor - 25% DV Fiber - 24 oz $9.77 View details
For all-purpose flour:
Prime Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, 22 Ounce (Pack of 4)
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(20,691) King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour, Certified Gluten-Free, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Kosher, 3 Pounds, Packaging May Vary $8.62 View details

Coffee Syrup

60 ml (0.25 cup) strong brewed coffee
50 grams (0.25 cup) sugar
We recommend:
For coffee beans:
Prime BROOKLYN COFFEE Whole Bean, Italian Dark Roast (5lb) Extra Strong, Delicious Taste, Heavenly Aroma - Fresh Bulk Coffee Beans Roasted Weekly in NYC
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For granulated sugar:
Prime best seller Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar Cubes, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO,Pack of 1
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(18,788) Sugar In The Raw Granulated Turbinado Cane Sugar, No Added Flavors or erythritol, Pure Natural Sweetener, Hot & Cold Drinks, Coffee, Baking, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Bulk Sugar, 2lb Bag (1-Pack) $3.74 $4.14 View details Prime C&H Pure Cane Granulated White Sugar, 25-Pound Bags
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Chocolate Ganache

200 grams (1 cup) dark chocolate, chopped
200 ml (0.75 cup) heavy cream
We recommend:
For dark chocolate:
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For heavy cream:
Prime Judee's Heavy Cream Powder 5 lb - Ideal for Baking, Cooking, and Beverages - Easy-to-Mix for Liquid Cream - Delicious and 100% Gluten-Free - Enhance Coffee, Pastries, Sauces, and Soups - Rich Flavor
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Coffee Buttercream

200 grams (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
150 grams (0.75 cup) powdered sugar
30 ml (2 tablespoons) brewed coffee
We recommend:
For unsalted butter:
Prime Kevala Cashew Butter 7 Lbs Pail
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For powdered sugar:
Prime Wholesome Fair Trade Organic Powdered Sugar, Naturally Flavored Real Sugar, Non GMO & Gluten Free, 50 Pound (Pack of 1)
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For coffee beans:
Prime BROOKLYN COFFEE Whole Bean, Italian Dark Roast (5lb) Extra Strong, Delicious Taste, Heavenly Aroma - Fresh Bulk Coffee Beans Roasted Weekly in NYC
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Chocolate Glaze

150 grams (0.75 cup) dark chocolate, chopped
150 ml (0.5 cup) heavy cream
We recommend:
For dark chocolate:
Prime best seller Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix, 18.2 OZ
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For heavy cream:
Prime Judee's Heavy Cream Powder 5 lb - Ideal for Baking, Cooking, and Beverages - Easy-to-Mix for Liquid Cream - Delicious and 100% Gluten-Free - Enhance Coffee, Pastries, Sauces, and Soups - Rich Flavor
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(680) Judee's Heavy Cream Powder 5 lb - Ideal for Baking, Cooking, and Beverages - Easy-to-Mix for Liquid Cream - Delicious and 100% Gluten-Free - Enhance Coffee, Pastries, Sauces, and Soups - Rich Flavor $61.99 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Sponge Cake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gently fold in the almond flour and all-purpose flour, followed by the melted butter.

Spread the batter evenly over the prepared sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 2

Make the Coffee Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine the brewed coffee and sugar. Heat while stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a moment, then stir until smooth. Allow the ganache to thicken as it cools.

Step 4

Whisk the Coffee Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until light and fluffy. Slowly incorporate the brewed coffee.

Step 5

Assemble the Opera Cake

Cut the sponge cake into three even layers. Place the first layer on a serving plate and brush it generously with coffee syrup. Spread a layer of buttercream over the syrup. Repeat with the second layer. For the final layer, cover the top with ganache.

Step 6

Finish with Chocolate Glaze

Heat the heavy cream for the glaze and pour over the remaining chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and pour over the assembled cake for a glossy finish. Let the cake rest in the refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.

Servings

🎉 **Serve with Flair!** Once you’ve crafted your stunning Opera Cake, consider enhancing your presentation. Slice it thinly to reveal the intricate layers and serve on elegant dessert plates.

🍨 **Pair with Delights:** Accompany the cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. These add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

☕ **Coffee’s Perfect Companion:** Given its coffee-infused layers, this cake pairs impeccably with a hot cup of espresso or an aromatic cappuccino. Enjoying a slice with your favorite brew elevates the experience.

🌿 **Fresh Twist:** Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, add a burst of color and a tart note that complements the cake's sweetness beautifully. Scatter them around the plate for a touch of elegance.

Equipment

Stand Mixer

A stand mixer helps achieve perfect batter consistency. If you don’t have one, a handheld mixer works fine, but be prepared for a little more arm workout.

We recommend:
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Baking Sheets

Ensure they’re lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This simple trick makes transferring your cake layers a breeze.

Offset Spatula

This tool is key for spreading the ganache evenly between layers. A butter knife can work in a pinch, but an offset spatula gives you more control.

We recommend:
Wilton 409-7712 Angled Spatula, 9", 9 inch, Black
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Food Scale

Precision is crucial in baking. A food scale ensures your measurements are spot-on, leading to the best results.

Variations

🌿 **Gluten-Free**: Replace traditional flour with a gluten-free almond or all-purpose baking flour mix. Ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free to prevent any cross-contamination.

💚 **Vegan**: Use plant-based alternatives such as vegan butter and creamy oat or almond milk. Opt for dark chocolate that is dairy-free, and substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer.

Faq

  • How can I prevent my cake layers from being dry?

    Make sure not to overbake the layers. Keep a close watch on the baking time and periodically check for a soft, springy texture.

  • What’s the best way to layer the cake?

    Use the offset spatula to spread each layer evenly. Be patient and gentle to keep the structure intact and prevent the layers from sliding.

  • Can I prepare the cake in advance?

    Absolutely! The flavors actually meld better if made a day ahead. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

  • How do I achieve a smooth ganache?

    Gently heat the cream and pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring. This method ensures a glossy, lump-free ganache.

  • Are there any specific techniques to perfect the almond sponge layer?

    Whisk air into your eggs until they're pale and fluffy—this results in a light, airy sponge layer that's essential for the Opera Cake.

  • What’s the secret to balancing coffee flavor in the cake?

    Use finely powdered coffee or espresso. It's more intense and blends seamlessly with the batter and cream, creating a balanced yet robust flavor.

Nutrition facts

Legendary French Opera Cake Recipe Guide
Recipe Yield:12 servings
Calories:Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories.
Calories (Min - Max):350 - 400
Total Fat:25g
Saturated Fat:15g
Protein:6g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:20g