why make this recipe

Opera Cake is a classic French dessert that impresses with its beautiful layers and rich flavors. Making this cake is a delightful challenge for home bakers who want to elevate their dessert game. It combines various techniques, including baking, whipping, and layering, allowing you to showcase your skills. Plus, who can resist the combination of coffee, chocolate, and creamy buttercream? This cake is perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply to enjoy as a luxurious treat.

how to make Opera Cake

Ingredients :

• 6 oz. almond flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur
• 4 oz. dark chocolate
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brewed strong coffee
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp gelatin (optional)

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs until frothy, then gradually add the dry ingredients.
4. Spread the batter onto the prepared baking tray and bake for about 15 minutes. Let it cool.
5. For the coffee buttercream, beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add sugar and coffee liqueur until smooth.
6. Melt dark chocolate and add it to the buttercream. Mix well.
7. Cut the almond sponge into layers, and alternate layers of sponge, coffee buttercream, and whipped cream.
8. Chill the cake in the fridge for a couple of hours to set.
9. Once set, slice and serve.

how to serve Opera Cake

Serve your Opera Cake chilled for the best texture and flavor. You can add a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate on top for an extra touch. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the experience. Cut the cake into small slices, as it is rich and filling.

how to store Opera Cake

Store any leftover Opera Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Opera Cake

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Make sure the layers are even for a beautiful presentation.
• If using gelatin, dissolve it completely in warm water before adding it to the buttercream.
• Allow each layer to cool completely before stacking to prevent melting and messiness.

variation

You can customize your Opera Cake by adding different flavors to the buttercream, such as hazelnut or vanilla. If you’re a fan of fruits, consider adding raspberry or orange zest between the layers for a fruity twist. Alternatively, you can replace coffee liqueur with chocolate liqueur for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Opera Cake in advance?
A: Yes, you can make Opera Cake a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge.

Q: What can I use instead of coffee liqueur?
A: If you don’t want to use coffee liqueur, you can substitute it with brewed coffee or milk for a non-alcoholic option.

Q: Is it difficult to make Opera Cake?
A: Making Opera Cake requires some time and patience, but it is manageable for anyone willing to follow the steps. Making it can be a fun baking project!

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Opera Cake

A classic French dessert featuring layers of almond sponge, coffee buttercream, and dark chocolate, perfect for special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine French

Servings 8 slices

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the almond sponge

• 6 oz almond flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

For the coffee buttercream

• 1 cup butter at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur
• 4 oz dark chocolate melted

For assembly

• 1 cup heavy cream whipped
• 1/4 cup brewed strong coffee
• 2 tbsp gelatin optional, dissolved

Instructions

 

Preparation and Baking

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
• In another bowl, whisk eggs until frothy, then gradually add the dry ingredients.
• Spread the batter onto the prepared baking tray and bake for about 15 minutes. Let it cool.

Making Coffee Buttercream

• Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add sugar and coffee liqueur until smooth.
• Melt dark chocolate and add it to the buttercream. Mix well.

Assembly

• Cut the almond sponge into layers, and alternate layers of sponge, coffee buttercream, and whipped cream.
• Chill the cake in the fridge for a couple of hours to set.
• Once set, slice and serve.

Notes

Serve chilled and consider dusting with cocoa or drizzling with chocolate. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Keyword Celebration Cake, coffee chocolate cake, French dessert, layered cake, Opera Cake