Classic Chocolate Ganache

Chocolate ganache is a simple yet luxurious mixture of chocolate and cream, known for its silky texture and rich taste. Whether poured as a glaze, whipped as a frosting, or cooled and rolled into truffles, ganache is an essential in both professional and home kitchens. This classic preparation delivers elegance with just two ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only two essential ingredients
• Versatile: glaze, dip, frosting, or filling
• Intensely chocolaty and smooth
• Ready in minutes with minimal equipment
• Easily adjustable for thickness and sweetness

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
• Heavy cream (also labeled as heavy whipping cream)

Optional for flavor variations:

• Unsalted butter (for shine)
• Vanilla extract
• Sea salt
• Liqueurs or espresso powder

Directions

1. Chop the chocolate:
   Finely chop the chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl.
2. Heat the cream:
   In a small saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
3. Pour over chocolate:
   Immediately pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to soften.
4. Stir to combine:
   Gently whisk or stir the mixture from the center outward until smooth, glossy, and fully combined.
5. Use or cool:
   • For a pourable glaze: use while warm.
   • For frosting or piping: cool until thickened.
   • For truffles: refrigerate until firm, then scoop and shape.

Servings and timing

• Yield: About 1 cup
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Dark chocolate ganache: Use chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher.
• Milk chocolate ganache: Use equal parts chocolate and cream.
• Whipped ganache: Chill, then beat with a mixer for a fluffy frosting.
• Infused ganache: Steep herbs or spices in the cream before pouring over chocolate.
• Salted ganache: Add a pinch of sea salt for balance and contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store ganache in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave at 50% power in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for ganache?

High-quality bars of bittersweet or semisweet chocolate melt better and yield a smoother ganache. Avoid chocolate chips if possible, as they contain stabilizers.

Can I use milk or white chocolate?

Yes, but these are sweeter and require different ratios. Use more chocolate when working with milk or white varieties.

Why is my ganache grainy or oily?

It may have overheated or been stirred too vigorously. Reheat gently and stir until smooth. If split, adding a splash of warm cream and whisking can help recover it.

Can I flavor ganache?

Absolutely. Add extracts, liqueurs, or even citrus zest after the chocolate has melted.

How do I make ganache thicker or thinner?

For a thicker ganache, use more chocolate or let it cool longer. For thinner, add a little more warm cream.

Can I whip ganache like frosting?

Yes. Once chilled, whip with a mixer until fluffy and light in color for a pipeable frosting.

Is ganache the same as chocolate sauce?

No. Ganache is richer and thicker due to the high fat content from the cream and chocolate. Chocolate sauce often includes sugar and water.

Can I use plant-based cream?

Yes, coconut cream or soy-based heavy cream alternatives work, though flavor and consistency may vary slightly.

Can ganache be used between cake layers?

Yes, it’s excellent as a filling. Let it cool slightly so it spreads evenly without oozing.

How long does ganache stay fresh?

Refrigerated ganache lasts about 5–7 days. Always bring it to room temperature or reheat gently before use.

Conclusion

Chocolate ganache is a foundational recipe every home baker should master. Its rich, smooth consistency and versatile uses make it a go-to for both everyday desserts and special-occasion treats. With just two ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you’ll have a luxurious topping, filling, or dip ready to elevate any dessert.

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