Cora & Pate's Easy Chocolate Ganache

This recipe is a must-have for any chocolate addict! Chocolate ganache can be used as a base for almost any chocolate dessert you can think of: truffles, torts, frosting, hot chocolate, cake, the list goes on. Add it as a topping to your favorite desserts, stir a spoonful into your morning coffee, or dip some fruit (or maybe your finger?) in its warm chocolatey goodness and feel the stress melt away!

(Image via Archana's Kitchen)

NOTE: While standard semisweet chocolate chips are perfectly delicious and acceptable in this recipe, specialty chocolate (chips, bars, or chunks) with 50-65% percent cocoa will give your ganache a heavenly complex flavor. 

Now, ready to start cooking?

Ingredients

  • 12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate (chips, morsels, or chopped bars)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 T. butter
  • 2 T strong brewed coffee
  • 1 t. vanilla
  • 1 pinch salt

Directions

1. Place cream and butter in a small sauce pan and warm over medium-low heat until the butter is melted and the cream is warmed throughout and steaming.

2. Stir in the coffee, salt, and vanilla.

3. Place the chocolate chips in a large mixing bowl and pour the warm cream mixture over it.

4. Allow to stand for 3-5 minutes to soften the chocolate. Whisk briskly to combine until smooth.