Your Favorite Red Wine Is The Secret To Unbeatably Fudgy Chocolate Cake
When it comes to dessert, there are few things more decadent than a rich, chocolatey cake. And when you add red wine to the mix? Well, you have a recipe for pure indulgence. That's exactly what you get with red wine chocolate cake. The recipe has gained a following for its intense chocolate flavor and unique ingredient list. Red wine is not a typical addition to cake batter, but it adds a depth of flavor and moisture that takes this cake to the next level.
But be warned, this cake is not for the faint of heart. It's rich, it's intense, and it's absolutely delicious. It's the perfect dessert for a special occasion, or just when you want to treat yourself to something extra indulgent. And while the recipe only calls for half a cup of red wine, you may want to make sure you have a full bottle on hand to enjoy alongside it.
Which wines pair best with chocolate cake?
When it comes to pairing wine with chocolate cake, it's important to keep in mind that the wine should be sweeter than the cake. The sweetness of the wine helps to balance the bitterness of the chocolate and creates a harmonious balance of flavors. That said, you should choose a red wine you actually like drinking for this recipe.
Port is a sweet, fortified wine that pairs exceptionally well with chocolate cake. The richness of port complements the depth of the chocolate. A Ruby port with its bright fruit flavors or a Tawny port with its nutty notes make great choices. If you prefer a more bitter wine, then Cabernet Sauvignon is a better choice. Its tannins cut through the richness of the cake, while its dark fruit flavors complement the chocolate. For something in the middle, Zinfandel is a medium-bodied red wine with a hint of spice that pairs well with chocolate cake. The wine's fruit-forward flavors and tannins help to balance the sweetness of the cake, while its spicy notes complement the chocolate.
Pairing red wine with chocolate cake is all about finding the right balance of sweetness, bitterness, and acidity. Whether you choose a sweet port or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, the perfect pairing can take your dessert experience to the next level. Experiment with different wines and find the one that works best with your palette.
How to make chocolate cake with red wine
The cake itself is relatively simple to make. The dry ingredients are whisked together in one bowl, while the wet ingredients (including the red wine) are mixed together in another. Once the two are combined, you have a smooth, silky batter ready for baking. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and fill with your batter. Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
The real magic happens in the oven. As the cake bakes, the red wine infuses every bite with its fruity, tannic notes. And thanks to the combination of both baking soda and baking powder, the cake rises beautifully, resulting in a light, tender crumb. Let the cake cool off for 10 minutes.
Once the cake is cooled, it's time to add the finishing touches. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is all it needs, although you could also top it with a dollop of whipped cream, mascarpone or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for even more indulgence.