Chocolate Cake (with Sacher Torte Variation)
This rich, moist chocolate cake can be enjoyed as is or transformed into a decadent Sacher Torte variation with a layer of raspberry jam and a smooth chocolate ganache.
Equipment
- 8-inch (20-cm) round cake pan
- Nonstick cooking spray
- whisk,
- Sifter
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 cup 240 g vanilla soy or other nondairy yogurt
- ½ cup 120 ml canola oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure chocolate extract optional
- 1¼ cups 155 g all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 120 g powdered sugar
- ¼ cup 20 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C, or gas mark 4).
- Lightly coat an 8-inch (20-cm) round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, canola oil, vanilla extract, and chocolate extract (if using).
- Sift the flour, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt over the wet ingredients.
- Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 1 hour before removing.
- For the best texture, chill the cake overnight before serving.
Sacher Torte Variation:
- Double the cake recipe and bake in two separate 8-inch (20-cm) round cake pans.
- Spread ¼ to ½ cup (80 to 160 g) all-fruit raspberry jam evenly over one of the cakes, then place the second cake on top.
- Double the Chocolate Ganache recipe (see page 74) or prepare a single recipe of Chocolate Agave Frosting (see page 447).
- Spread the frosting or ganache over the top and sides of the layered cake.
- Let the cake cool for several hours before serving.
- For optimal flavor, prepare the cake a day in advance.
Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:
Serving Tip:
Dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh raspberries for a simple garnish.
Wine Advice:
Pair with a sweet dessert wine like Port or a rich, robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 270 kcal | Carbohydrates: 36 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 13 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 18 g | Salt: 0.3 mg
