Mocha Torte with Hazelnut Ganache

This dessert is so easy to pull together, you can have it in the oven in less than 10 minutes.  It's so rich and decadent that a small piece goes a long way.  Flavor the ganache with your favorite liquor or make it without the liquor for pure chocolate flavor.

photography by Paul Gelsobello Studio

Prep Time:  10 minutes

Cook Time:  25 minutes

Makes: 12 servings

1 can Baker's Joy¨ non-stick spray with flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1-1/2 cups bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided

2 tablespoons instant espresso powder

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, slightly beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon Frangelica or other hazelnut flavored  liquor

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray 9-inch round cake pan with Baker's Joy cooking spray.

Melt 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup chocolate chips in medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in espresso powder, sugar, eggs, vanilla and salt. Stir in flour just until blended. Spread batter into prepared pan.   

Bake 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean. Do not overbake. Cool 15 minutes on wire rack. Remove from pan and cool completely.

Meanwhile, bring cream just a boil. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips until melted; stir in Frangelico. Let cool, slightly, to thicken, stirring occasionally.

Place rack with cake on waxed paper, then pour ganache in center of cake.  Spread the edge with spatula, allowing some ganache to drip down sides of torte.  Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour. Garnish with raspberries or chopped hazelnuts, if desired.

food stylist - Catherine Paukner

food stylist assistant - Lauren Dellabella

prop stylist - Heather Bean

recipe developed for Baker's Joy