This no-bake dark chocolate ganache cake is a rich, creamy dessert made with just two simple ingredients. It delivers an intense chocolate flavor and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture without turning on the oven. Perfect for warm days, last-minute guests, or anytime a deep chocolate craving strikes, this cake proves that simplicity can be incredibly luxurious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is wonderfully simple and nearly foolproof. With only two core ingredients, it’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough to serve at a special occasion. There is no baking involved, no flour, and no complicated techniques. The result is a dense, fudgy cake with a silky ganache-like consistency that feels indulgent but effortless. It’s also easy to customize with toppings or flavor variations while keeping the base recipe intact.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa solids), finely chopped – 500 g
fresh heavy cream – 250 ml
unsweetened cocoa powder for topping – 1 tablespoon

Directions

1. Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heat-resistant bowl.
2. Pour the heavy cream into a small saucepan and heat it gently over medium heat until it reaches a light simmer. Do not let it boil.
3. Immediately pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for about 1 minute to allow the chocolate to soften.
4. Using a whisk or spatula, stir slowly until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.
5. Line a round cake pan (18–20 cm) with parchment paper, making sure the base and sides are covered.
6. Pour the chocolate ganache into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
8. Once firm, invert the cake onto a serving plate and carefully remove the parchment paper.
9. Dust the top evenly with unsweetened cocoa powder before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 slices
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 3 hours
Total time: approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes

Variations

For a slightly sweeter cake, use dark chocolate with 50–60% cocoa content.
Add a pinch of fine salt to the ganache to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Mix in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a subtle coffee note.
Fold in 50 g of chopped toasted nuts for added texture.
Top with fresh berries or a light layer of whipped cream just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, slice the cake and freeze the portions in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
This cake is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the cake will be much sweeter and softer, with a less intense chocolate flavor.

Why didn’t my ganache set properly?

This usually happens if the cream-to-chocolate ratio is off or if the cream was too hot, affecting the texture.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can try using thick coconut cream, but the flavor and texture will change slightly.

What size pan works best?

An 18–20 cm round pan is ideal for a thick, sliceable cake.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I add flavorings to the ganache?

Yes, small amounts of vanilla extract, espresso powder, or citrus zest work well.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Can I serve this cake at room temperature?

It’s best served chilled, as it softens quickly at room temperature.

What cocoa powder should I use on top?

Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a balanced, elegant finish.

Can I prepare this cake a day in advance?

Yes, it actually benefits from resting overnight in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This 2-ingredient no-bake dark chocolate ganache cake is the ultimate example of how minimal ingredients can create maximum impact. With its deep chocolate flavor, creamy texture, and effortless preparation, it’s a dessert you’ll return to again and again. Whether served plain or dressed up with toppings, it’s a timeless treat that never fails to impress.

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