Opera Cake is a luxurious, multi-layered dessert that combines rich flavors and intricate textures, making it perfect for special occasions. This cake features layers of almond sponge, velvety coffee buttercream, and a decadent chocolate glaze. Every bite is a symphony of coffee and chocolate, creating a truly indulgent experience. If you’re looking to impress at a party or special gathering, this is the cake to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Opera Cake is a showstopper dessert that’s both sophisticated and satisfying. The almond sponge provides a delicate, nutty flavor, while the coffee buttercream adds a creamy and slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the cake. The chocolate glaze on top brings it all together with a glossy, smooth finish. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it the ultimate dessert for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
-
For the almond sponge:
-
3/4 cup almond flour
-
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
-
4 large eggs
-
1/2 cup sugar
-
1/2 cup butter, melted
-
1/4 cup brewed coffee
-
-
For the chocolate glaze:
-
1/2 cup dark chocolate
-
1/2 cup heavy cream
-
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet.
-
Whisk the eggs and sugar together until thick and pale, about 5-7 minutes. This will help give the sponge a light texture.
-
Gently fold in the almond flour and all-purpose flour, being careful not to deflate the egg mixture.
-
Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
-
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the sponge is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Let the sponge cool completely on a wire rack, then cut it into 3 equal layers.
-
Prepare the coffee buttercream: In a bowl, mix together the melted butter and brewed coffee. If you prefer a thicker buttercream, you can also incorporate a little powdered sugar or cream.
-
Assemble the cake: Layer the sponge with the coffee buttercream, spreading it evenly between each layer.
-
Make the chocolate glaze: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and heavy cream together until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before pouring over the assembled cake.
-
Let the cake set in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up the layers and glaze before serving.
Servings and timing
-
Servings: 8 servings
-
Prep Time: 25 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
-
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Variations
-
Flavored buttercream: Experiment with different flavored buttercreams, such as adding a hint of vanilla or hazelnut for an added twist to the coffee flavor.
-
Liqueur: For a more luxurious touch, you can brush the sponge layers with coffee liqueur or a flavored syrup before assembling the cake.
-
Nut-free version: For a nut-free version, you can replace the almond flour with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, although it may change the texture slightly.
Storage/Reheating
-
Storage: Store Opera Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
-
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled cake before adding the chocolate glaze. Wrap the cake layers in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge and then add the glaze.
-
Reheating: Opera Cake is best served chilled, so there is no need to reheat it.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, Opera Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. In fact, it often tastes better after it has had time to set in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Can I use a different type of flour?
For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make the buttercream thicker?
Yes, if you prefer a thicker buttercream, you can add a little powdered sugar or use less brewed coffee to create a more solid buttercream texture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as the cake should remain soft and tender.
How can I make the chocolate glaze shinier?
To get a glossy finish on the glaze, make sure the chocolate and cream are well combined, and avoid overheating the mixture. You can also add a teaspoon of corn syrup to the glaze for extra shine.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the glaze?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter glaze, but it may not be as rich and intense as dark chocolate. Dark chocolate pairs well with the coffee and almond flavors for a more balanced taste.
Can I skip the coffee flavor?
If you’re not a fan of coffee, you can substitute the brewed coffee with an equal amount of milk or cream. Alternatively, you could infuse the buttercream with a different flavor, such as hazelnut or vanilla.
How can I make this cake even more decadent?
For an extra indulgent treat, you can add a layer of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce between the sponge and buttercream layers.
How do I cut the cake into equal layers?
After the cake cools, use a serrated knife to carefully slice the cake into 3 equal layers. It’s helpful to use a ruler or guide to ensure even cuts.
Can I make this cake without a special pan?
You can use a regular baking sheet to bake the sponge, but ensure it’s lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. After baking, you can trim the edges to make the cake layers even.
Conclusion
Opera Cake is the perfect dessert for special occasions, combining the elegance of French patisserie with the rich flavors of coffee, chocolate, and almond. The delicate layers, decadent buttercream, and glossy glaze make it a true showstopper. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy with every luxurious bite. Enjoy the experience of making and eating this exquisite dessert!
Print
Opera Cake
This classic Opera Cake is a stunning French dessert with delicate almond sponge layers, rich coffee buttercream, and a smooth dark chocolate glaze. Perfect for special occasions, this multi-layered cake is a luxurious combination of coffee and chocolate flavors in every elegant bite. A beautiful showstopper that’s as delicious as it is impressive!
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
For the Almond Sponge:
3/4 cup almond flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup brewed coffee
For the Chocolate Glaze:
1/2 cup dark chocolate
1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet; line with parchment paper.
-
Whisk eggs and sugar together until thick, pale, and fluffy (5–7 minutes).
-
Gently fold in almond flour and all-purpose flour without deflating the mixture.
-
Pour batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
-
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
-
Slice the sponge into 3 even layers.
-
Make the coffee buttercream by combining melted butter and brewed coffee (add powdered sugar for a thicker texture if desired).
-
Assemble the cake by layering the sponge with coffee buttercream between each layer.
-
For the glaze, heat chocolate and cream together until smooth. Let cool slightly, then pour over the top of the assembled cake.
-
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set before serving.
Notes
-
Flavored Buttercream: Add hazelnut or vanilla extract for variation.
-
Liqueur Option: Brush sponge layers with coffee liqueur or syrup for extra richness.
-
Nut-Free Version: Replace almond flour with all-purpose flour (texture will vary).
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Special Occasion, Cakes
- Method: Baking, Layered
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
