Anniversary Cake. Chocolate, of course!

Made this cake for our Anniversary early this month. There is something very inherently sexy about Chocolate cakes, don’t you think?. This was no exception. Seemed like just the right thing to bake for the anniversary.

Simple, rich and very satisfying ! This is a mix of many recipes. I think what did the trick was the use of Lindt chocolate and Almond meal. The latter added a beautiful texture, the former, richness and personality :).

 

 

Ingredients:

• 200g Lindt dark chocolate
• 200g butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 -4 eggs (use 3 if they are extra large ones)
• 1 cup self-raising flour
• 3/4 cup almond meal
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup milk

For the icing

• 200g dark chocolate – Lindt or Nestle, chopped
• 1/2 cup thickened cream

 

Method

1. Preheat oven to 170°C. Grease and line base of a round cake pan.

2. Place chocolate in heat proof bowl and microwave, uncovered, on 50% heat/medium for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every minute, until it melts and is smooth. Set aside to cool for about 6 minutes.

3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter, sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time.  Add melted chocolate, combine well. Sift flour and cocoa together. Fold half the flour mixture into butter mixture, little at a time. Add half the milk. Stir gently to combine. Repeat with remaining flour mixture and milk. Spoon into pan and level the surface of the mixture. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

4. Chocolate icing: Combine chocolate bits and cream in a  microwave-safe bowl. Microwave, uncovered,  for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every minute with a metal spoon, until almost melted. Stir until smooth. Set aside for 15 minutes .

5. Spread over cake only after the cake has completely cooled down.

6. Decorate with fresh fruits or chocolate shavings.

 

Surprise spouse :)!