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Classic Chocolate Ganache Recipe

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1.1 cup (approximately 16 servings, 1 tablespoon each)
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French

Description

A rich and silky chocolate ganache made with finely chopped semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate and heavy cream. This versatile ganache can be used as a glaze, frosting, or filling for truffles and desserts, providing a luscious chocolate finish with optional butter for extra shine.


Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Ganache

  • 8 oz (227g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (optional, for extra shine)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Chocolate: Place the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl, ensuring it is evenly distributed to melt smoothly.
  2. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Avoid boiling to prevent burning or separation.
  3. Combine Cream and Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to soften the chocolate and start melting.
  4. Whisk Ganache: Gently whisk from the center outward until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth, glossy, and lump-free.
  5. Add Butter: Stir in the unsalted butter if using, to add extra shine and richness to the ganache.
  6. Cool for Use: For glaze, use immediately while warm. For frosting, cool ganache for 20-30 minutes until thick enough to spread comfortably.
  7. Make Truffles: Chill the ganache until firm, then roll into balls to create delicious chocolate truffles.

Notes

  • Use good quality chocolate for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overheat the cream or let it boil to prevent the ganache from curdling.
  • The butter is optional but helps create a glossy finish.
  • Ganache consistency can be adjusted by varying cooling times based on intended use.
  • Store unused ganache covered in the refrigerator and gently rewarm before reuse.