Csokoládé torta

Csokoládé torta, or chocolate cake, is a beloved dessert in Hungary. Here’s a classic recipe for a rich and decadent Hungarian chocolate cake:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 8 oz (225g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Decoration (Optional):

• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream
• Shaved chocolate

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
   2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
   4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

2. Bake:

   1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
   2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Ganache:

   1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
   2. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.
   3. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
   4. Add the butter and stir until fully combined and smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

4. Assemble and Frost:

   1. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread a layer of ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
   2. For a smoother finish, you can use an offset spatula to evenly spread the ganache.

5. Decorate (Optional):

   1. Decorate the cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or shaved chocolate as desired.

6. Serve:

   1. Slice and enjoy! This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

This chocolate cake is rich and flavorful, perfect for any special occasion or simply as a treat for yourself. Enjoy baking and indulging in your homemade csokoládé torta!