Prepare to fall head over heels for the most decadent, irresistible chocolate dessert that's about to revolutionize your baking game! These Chocolate Heart Cake Balls are not just a treat - they're an experience that combines the rich, velvety texture of chocolate cake with a luxurious ganache coating that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress your valentine, celebrate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe is your ticket to dessert paradise!
Prep Time: 40 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 3 eggs, 1 cup water, and 1/2 cup vegetable oil. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, ensuring an even distribution. Use a spatula to spread the batter to the corners.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for approximately 45 minutes.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the ganache. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips to the hot cream. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Crumble the cooled cake into fine, even crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup softened butter.
- Mix the cake crumbs, chocolate chips, and butter until they form a moldable consistency. Shape into heart-shaped balls or use a heart-shaped silicone mold.
- Refrigerate the cake balls for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Remove cake balls from the refrigerator and pour the prepared ganache over them, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Allow the ganache to set at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. For faster setting, refrigerate for 5-10 minutes.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your cake is completely cooled before crumbling to prevent a mushy texture.
- Consistency is Key: When mixing cake crumbs, aim for a play-dough-like consistency that holds its shape but isn't too dry.
- Ganache Technique: Let the hot cream sit with chocolate chips for a few minutes before whisking to create a smooth, glossy finish.
- Chilling Hack: Refrigerate cake balls before coating with ganache to help them maintain their shape and make coating easier.
- Decoration Options: Consider sprinkling extra chocolate chips, cocoa powder, or edible glitter on top for a stunning presentation.
- Make-Ahead Magic: These cake balls can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for party prep.
- Serving Tip: Let the cake balls sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance their rich chocolate flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
