Description
This Chocolate Easter Egg Nest Cake features a rich, moist chocolate cake topped with a decadent ganache and a stunning chocolate nest filled with colorful mini Easter eggs. Perfect for Easter celebrations, this festive cake combines indulgent chocolate flavor with an impressive visual presentation.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup cocoa powder
2 cups sugar
1½ tsp baking soda
1½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup oil
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup hot coffee (or water)
- For the Ganache:
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8 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 tbsp butter
- For the Nest:
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4 oz dark chocolate
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Mini Easter eggs for filling
Instructions
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Prepare the Cake:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch cake pan.
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In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
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Stir in the hot coffee (or water), mixing until smooth.
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Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding.
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Make the Ganache:
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Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
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Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate and stir until fully melted and smooth.
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Stir in the butter for a glossy finish. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Assemble the Cake:
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Once the cake has cooled, pour the ganache over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Allow the ganache to set for about 10–15 minutes.
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Create the Nest:
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Melt the dark chocolate for the nest.
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Using a piping bag or a spoon, pipe overlapping lines of chocolate onto a piece of parchment paper to form a nest shape.
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Chill the nest in the refrigerator until firm (about 20–30 minutes).
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Finish the Cake:
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Once the chocolate nest has hardened, gently lift it off the parchment paper and place it on top of the ganached cake.
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Fill the nest with mini Easter eggs. Optionally, dust with cocoa powder or decorate with extra chocolate decorations.
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Notes
Milk Chocolate Option: For a sweeter taste, use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache and nest.
Decorative Touches: You can also decorate the cake with edible flowers, chocolate truffles, or sprinkles for a festive look.
Make Ahead: The cake can be made a day in advance, and the ganache and nest can be prepared before serving.