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opera cake – smitten kitchen

Opera Cake

This classic French Opera Cake features layers of almond sponge, coffee syrup, French buttercream, and rich chocolate ganache.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Birthday Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 4 pieces Large egg whites Must be at room temperature.
  • 1.5 tablespoons Granulated sugar For meringue.
  • 3/4 cup Granulated sugar Remaining sugar for egg yolks.
  • 4 pieces Large eggs
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Sifted.
  • 1 cup Almond flour Fine, for added texture.
For the Buttercream
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 3/4 cup Granulated sugar For making syrup.
  • 4 pieces Large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup Espresso Strongly brewed.
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter Softened.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
For the Chocolate Ganache
  • 8 ounces Bittersweet chocolate Chopped.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
For the Soaking Syrup
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup Hot espresso
  • 2 tablespoons Brandy Optional.

Method
 

Make the Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of two 9x13-inch pans with parchment paper and coat with nonstick spray.
  2. In a mixer bowl, whip the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Sprinkle in salt and sugar, then increase speed to form glossy, stiff peaks.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the whole eggs and remaining sugar on high until thick and light in color.
  4. Fold in the all-purpose and almond flour, followed by the whipped egg whites.
  5. Divide and spread the batter between the two pans. Bake for 9 to 13 minutes until set. Cool completely.
Make the Buttercream
  1. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar and boil until it reaches 238°F (114°C).
  2. In a mixer bowl, beat egg yolks for 2 minutes, then slowly add the hot syrup while mixing.
  3. Add espresso and let cool slightly. Gradually incorporate softened butter until smooth. Add salt and mix until creamy.
Make the Chocolate Ganache
  1. In a bowl, pour hot cream over chopped chocolate, let sit for one minute, then whisk until smooth.
Make the Soaking Syrup
  1. Combine sugar and hot espresso until dissolved. Add brandy and set aside.
Assemble the Cake
  1. Run a knife around the cooled cake, lift one layer onto a cutting board, and cut into thirds.
  2. Place the first layer on a serving plate, brush with syrup, and spread with chocolate. Repeat with remaining layers.
  3. Chill for 30 minutes to firm the buttercream, then spread the remaining chocolate on top.
Finish the Cake
  1. Let the cake rest in the fridge for a few hours before trimming edges with a serrated knife.
  2. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

The cake keeps in the fridge for 5 days; it can also be frozen once firm.