Opera Cake Recipe

Opera cake recipe is a luxurious, multi-layered French dessert that brings together a harmonious blend of almond sponge cake (known as joconde), coffee buttercream, and rich chocolate ganache. This delectable treat is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that tantalizes taste buds with its perfect balance of flavors and textures. A masterpiece in the world of pastries, opera cake is often reserved for special occasions but can also be made at home with the right technique and a little patience.

A Brief History of Opera Cake Recipe:

The opera cake is believed to have originated in France in the 1950s. While the exact origins are debated, it is widely attributed to pastry chef Cyriaque Gavillon from Dalloyau, a renowned Parisian patisserie. Gavillon’s goal was to create a dessert where all layers could be tasted in one bite, a concept that was revolutionary at the time. The cake’s name supposedly comes from its resemblance to the layered seating in an opera house or its richness, which mirrors the grandeur of an opera performance.

Opera Cake Recipe

Pinklady

The opera cake is believed to have originated in France in the 1950s. While the exact origins are debated, it is widely attributed to pastry chef Cyriaque Gavillon from Dalloyau, a renowned Parisian patisserie. Gavillon’s goal was to create a dessert where all layers could be tasted in one bite, a concept that was revolutionary at the time.

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Prep Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 29 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine French

Servings 10

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Offset spatula
• Saucepan
• Pastry brush
• Knife or bench scraper

Ingredients

  

For the Joconde Sponge Cake:

• 6 large eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
• 120g (1 cup) almond flour
• 120g (1 cup) powdered sugar
• 40g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour
• 3 large egg whites
• 40g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar

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For the Coffee Syrup:

• 120ml (1/2 cup) water
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp instant coffee or espresso powder

For the Coffee Buttercream:

• 3 large egg yolks
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 tsp instant coffee dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (chopped)
• 200ml (3/4 cup) heavy cream

For the Chocolate Glaze:

• 150g (5 oz) dark chocolate (chopped)
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., sunflower oil)

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Make the Joconde Sponge Cake

  Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper.

  In a mixing bowl, whisk the almond flour, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour.

  Add the egg yolks and mix until smooth.

  In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy, then gradually add granulated sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.

  Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture in batches, ensuring you don’t deflate the batter.

  Divide the batter evenly among the prepared baking sheets, spreading it thinly and evenly.

  Bake for 7-9 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the layers cool completely.
• Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Syrup

  Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.

  Once the sugar dissolves, stir in the coffee powder.

  Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
• Step 3: Make the Coffee Buttercream

  In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks.

  Heat sugar and water in a saucepan until it reaches 115°C (240°F) on a candy thermometer.

  Slowly pour the hot syrup into the yolks while whisking continuously. Beat until the mixture cools.

  Gradually add softened butter and coffee, beating until smooth and fluffy.
• Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

  Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering.

  Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute.

  Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
• Step 5: Assemble the Cake

  Place one sponge layer on a serving board and brush it generously with coffee syrup.

  Spread a thin, even layer of coffee buttercream.

  Place the second sponge layer on top, brush with syrup, and spread a layer of ganache.

  Repeat with the third layer, brushing with syrup and covering with buttercream.

  Chill the cake for 30 minutes.
• Step 6: Add the Chocolate Glaze

  Melt the chocolate and oil together until smooth.

  Pour the glaze over the chilled cake, spreading it evenly.

  Let the glaze set before trimming the edges for a clean finish.

Video

Keyword Opera Cake Recipe

Similar Recipes:

Tiramisu Cake

Chocolate Eclair Cake

Mocha Layer Cake

Almond Raspberry Torte

Mille-Feuille (Napoleon Pastry)

Frequently Asked Questions About Opera Cake Recipe:

1. Can I make opera cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

2. Can I freeze opera cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

3. What’s the best coffee to use for the buttercream?

Use instant espresso powder for a strong and aromatic coffee flavor.

4. Can I substitute almond flour?

Almond flour is essential for the cake’s texture, but you can try hazelnut flour as an alternative.

5. How do I ensure even cake layers?

Use a scale to divide the batter evenly and spread it uniformly on the baking sheets.

6. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but it will result in a sweeter cake.

7. Why is my buttercream separating?

Ensure your butter is at room temperature and beat the mixture thoroughly.

8. How do I get a smooth glaze?

Pour the glaze quickly and spread it with an offset spatula for an even finish.

9. Do I need a candy thermometer?

It’s highly recommended for making the buttercream, but you can estimate if you’re experienced.

10. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Conclusion:

Opera cake may seem intimidating, but with careful preparation and attention to detail, you can recreate this stunning French dessert in your own kitchen. Its layered perfection and bold flavors make it a showstopper for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your spatula, and impress your friends and family with this classic treat!

YouTube Video Credits:
Joconde’s baking