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Chocolate Chestnut Bundt Cake with Candied Chestnuts and Rich Ganache Recipe

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★★★★★

4.3 from 239 reviews

This decadent Chocolate Chestnut Cake combines the rich flavors of sweetened chestnut purée and cocoa powder into a moist bundt cake. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and garnished with caramelized candied chestnuts, this elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

  • 4 eggs (separated)
  • 6 tbsp sugar
  • 500 g sweetened chestnut purée
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 stick butter (melted, about 113 g)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (about 180 g)
  • ½ cup cocoa powder (about 50 g)
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup milk (240 ml)
  • 2 tbsp butter (for candied chestnuts)
  • 200 g roasted chestnuts (roughly chopped)
  • 4 tbsp sugar (for candied chestnuts)

Ganache

  • 4 oz dark chocolate (about 115 g, finely chopped)
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream (120 ml)
  • 1 tsp rum (optional)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
  2. Mix yolks and sweeteners: Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in a stand mixer bowl. Add 6 tablespoons of sugar and beat with a paddle attachment until the mixture is pale yellow and thick, indicating proper aeration.
  3. Add chestnut purée and butter: Stir in the sweetened chestnut purée and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then add the melted stick of butter and mix until combined.
  4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mixer, alternating with the milk. Beat between additions just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
  6. Beat egg whites: In a clean bowl, whip the reserved egg whites until stiff peaks form. This aerates the batter further for a light texture.
  7. Fold in egg whites: Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter in three batches, using a spatula to maintain airiness.
  8. Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, testing doneness by inserting a skewer into the center— it should come out clean.
  9. Cool the cake: Once baked, transfer the cake to a rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Invert onto a serving platter, remove the pan, and allow to cool to room temperature before adding the ganache.
  10. Prepare candied chestnuts: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped roasted chestnuts and 4 tablespoons of sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar melts and caramelizes, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to parchment paper and spread out to cool.
  11. Make chocolate ganache: Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it into a mixing bowl. Heat the heavy cream over high heat until just boiling, then immediately pour it over the chocolate. Add vanilla extract and optional rum. Let sit for 3 to 4 minutes to melt the chocolate.
  12. Whisk ganache: Whisk the chocolate and cream mixture until smooth and glossy. If too runny, allow it to cool slightly before using. Rewarm gently if it hardens prematurely.
  13. Finish and serve: Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled bundt cake. Garnish with the cooled candied chestnuts on top. Allow the ganache to set before slicing and serving. Enjoy this rich, festive dessert!

Notes

  • Ensure egg whites are whipped in a clean, grease-free bowl for best volume.
  • Do not overmix batter after adding flour to keep cake tender.
  • Optional rum in ganache adds depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Allow ganache to cool to a pourable but not runny consistency for best coverage.
  • Store cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Keywords: chocolate chestnut cake, bundt cake, chestnut purée dessert, chocolate ganache cake, candied chestnuts, holiday cake

Find it online: https://epicrecipebox.com/chocolate-chestnut-bundt-cake-with-candied-chestnuts-and-rich-ganache-recipe/