Opera Cake is a classic French dessert that features layers of almond sponge cake soaked in coffee syrup, rich coffee buttercream, dark chocolate ganache, and a glossy chocolate glaze. This elegant cake is perfect for special occasions and is sure to impress with its sophisticated flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

For the Almond Sponge Cake (Genoise):

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Coffee Syrup:

• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)

For the Coffee Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 4 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon corn syrup

Timing

Making Opera Cake takes about 1 hour for preparation, 30 minutes for baking, and 2-3 hours for cooling and assembling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Almond Sponge Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, followed by the melted butter and vanilla extract until just combined.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Syrup

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the brewed coffee and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the coffee liqueur (if using). Let cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Buttercream

1. Beat Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Coffee: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add the brewed coffee and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Make the Dark Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat Cream: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer.
2. Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Opera Cake

1. Cut Cake: Once the almond sponge cake is completely cool, cut it into three equal layers.
2. Soak Layers: Place the first layer on a serving platter and brush generously with the coffee syrup.
3. Add Buttercream: Spread a layer of coffee buttercream over the soaked sponge.
4. Add Ganache: Pour a layer of dark chocolate ganache over the buttercream.
5. Repeat Layers: Place the second layer on top and repeat the soaking, buttercream, and ganache steps. Add the final layer of sponge cake, soaking it as well.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

1. Heat Cream: In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it simmers.
2. Add Chocolate and Corn Syrup: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate and corn syrup until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

1. Pour Glaze: Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Smooth the top with a spatula if needed.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set the glaze.

Step 8: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Once set, slice the cake into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture!

Step 9: Dig In

1. Savor the Flavor: Indulge in the rich combination of coffee, chocolate, and almond in this exquisite dessert!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Opera Cake (per slice, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	5g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	25g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Substitute almond flour with hazelnut flour for a different nutty flavor.
• Decoration: Garnish with chocolate shavings or edible gold leaf for an elegant touch.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Conclusion

Opera Cake is a luxurious dessert that beautifully combines the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate with the delicate texture of almond sponge cake. Perfect for special occasions, this cake is sure to impress your guests! Enjoy this delightful recipe!