Chocolate Cake with Hearts is a stunning dessert that celebrates the timeless allure of chocolate. The recipe combines rich chocolate flavors with a touch of elegance, featuring a chocolate cake base, mousse filling, and decorative chocolate top. Inspired by the ancient history of cacao, this dessert is a tribute to its enduring legacy in global pastry-making. Perfect for special occasions, this cake is sure to delight both young and old.
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Melt the chocolates in a double boiler.
In a saucepan, add the butter and sugars, then mix in the melted chocolate, walnuts, and vanilla. Remove from heat and add the eggs, flour, and marshmallows.
Pour the mixture into a greased and floured ring mold. Bake at 150°C (300°F) for approximately 20 minutes.
Whip the cream with the sugar and vanilla until it forms soft peaks.
Off the mixer, vigorously fold in the warm melted chocolate.
Temper the chocolate and pour it onto an acetate sheet. Using a spatula, spread it evenly. When the chocolate is almost set, cut it with a ring mold.
For the chocolate strips, pour the tempered chocolate onto strips of acetate and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. When the chocolate is almost set, fold the strips in half, pressing only the ends while avoiding pressure in the center. Cut the ends into a 'V' shape, let them set, and then remove the acetate.
Once the heart-shaped chocolate plate and strips have set, assemble the decoration. Place four chocolate strips as the base, securing them with softened chocolate. Add three more strips on top, and finish with one strip in the center to form a bow.
Allow everything to set completely.
Once the cake has cooled, unmold it and hollow out the center slightly. Fill the hollow with chocolate mousse and marshmallows.
Arrange the roses on top and place the chocolate top over the cake.
Ensure the chocolate is tempered correctly to achieve a smooth and glossy finish for the decorative top.
Use fresh roses for decoration and ensure they are pesticide-free if placing directly on the cake.
Allow the cake to cool completely before unmolding to avoid breaking it.
For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another ingredient?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds or pecans, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
How do I temper chocolate?
Tempering chocolate involves melting it to a specific temperature, cooling it slightly, and then reheating it to stabilize the cocoa butter crystals for a glossy finish.
Can I use whipped cream instead of heavy cream for the mousse?
No, heavy cream is required as it has a higher fat content, which helps achieve the desired consistency for the mousse.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, to keep it fresh. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make the chocolate top in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chocolate top ahead of time and store it in a cool, dry place until ready to assemble the cake.
