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Close up view of the seven layers of a syrup soaked Opera Cake

Opera Cake


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5 from 20 reviews

  • Author: Mehmet Ugur
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 mins
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A sophisticated French masterpiece featuring seven layers of almond Joconde sponge, rich coffee buttercream, and velvety chocolate ganache. This elegant dessert balances bold espresso flavors with a smooth, mirror-like chocolate glaze for a truly indulgent experience.


Ingredients

  • Almond flour
  • Powdered sugar
  • Whole eggs
  • Egg whites
  • All-purpose flour
  • Melted unsalted butter
  • Dark chocolate (60% cocoa)
  • Liquid cream
  • Granulated sugar
  • Softened unsalted butter
  • High-quality coffee extract
  • Water


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F), whisk almond flour and powdered sugar with whole eggs until voluminous, then fold in whipped egg whites, flour, and melted butter; bake on a lined sheet for 10-12 minutes.
  2. Melt dark chocolate in a bain-marie and stir in liquid cream to create a smooth ganache, then cool until spreadable.
  3. Whisk eggs and sugar over gentle heat until thick, then beat in softened butter and coffee extract to create the buttercream.
  4. Simmer water, sugar, and coffee extract to make a syrup and let it cool completely.
  5. Layer soaked sponge rectangles with buttercream and ganache, stacking three sponge layers total while pressing lightly to remove air gaps.
  6. Melt remaining chocolate with butter for the glaze, pour over the chilled cake, smooth with a spatula, and refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing.

Notes

To ensure the most professional presentation, chill the cake thoroughly before applying the final glaze. When ready to serve, use a hot, dry knife for each cut to achieve sharp, distinct layers without smearing the buttercream or ganache components together.

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French