Opera Cake is a luxurious, multi-layered French dessert that combines almond sponge cake (Joconde), coffee buttercream, chocolate ganache, and a shiny chocolate glaze. This rich, elegant cake is known for its perfect balance of coffee and chocolate flavors, making it a must-try for any pastry lover.

Let’s make this beautiful and sophisticated Opera Cake step by step!

1. Why You’ll Love This Opera Cake

Elegant, Rich, and Indulgent

Layers of almond sponge cake, coffee syrup, buttercream, and ganache.
A smooth chocolate glaze adds the perfect glossy finish.

Perfect for Special Occasions

A classic French patisserie cake, ideal for weddings, celebrations, or holidays.
Looks stunning and tastes incredible—a true showstopper!

Worth the Effort

Although it has multiple layers, it’s easy to follow with the right steps.
The combination of coffee and chocolate is simply irresistible!

2. Best Ingredients for Opera Cake

For the Almond Sponge Cake (Joconde):

6 large eggs
6 egg whites
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ cups almond flour
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp melted butter

For the Coffee Syrup:

½ cup water
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp instant espresso powder

For the Coffee Buttercream:

4 large egg yolks
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup water
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp instant espresso dissolved in 1 tbsp hot water

For the Chocolate Ganache:

6 oz dark chocolate, chopped
½ cup heavy cream
1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Glaze:

4 oz dark chocolate, melted
1 tbsp vegetable oil

3. Step-by-Step Opera Cake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Almond Sponge Cake (Joconde)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets (10×15 inches) with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk eggs, almond flour, and all-purpose flour until light and fluffy.
In another bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the egg white mixture into the almond mixture.
Add melted butter and fold until combined.
Divide the batter evenly between two baking sheets and smooth the top.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Syrup

In a saucepan, heat water and sugar until dissolved.
Stir in espresso powder and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Coffee Buttercream

In a saucepan, heat sugar and water until it reaches 240°F (115°C).
In a bowl, beat egg yolks while slowly pouring in the hot syrup.
Continue beating until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
Add softened butter, one piece at a time, beating until smooth.
Mix in dissolved espresso.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate.
Stir until smooth, then mix in butter. Let cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Opera Cake

Place one sponge cake layer on a board and brush with coffee syrup.
Spread half of the coffee buttercream evenly over the cake.
Place the second cake layer on top, brush with more coffee syrup.
Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the cake.
Add the final cake layer, brush with coffee syrup, and spread the remaining buttercream.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Glaze

Melt dark chocolate with vegetable oil until smooth.
Pour over the chilled cake and smooth with an offset spatula.
Refrigerate for 30 more minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Use a hot knife to cut clean slices.
Garnish with gold leaf, cocoa powder, or chocolate decorations.
Serve and enjoy this elegant French masterpiece!

4. Tips for the Best Opera Cake

How to Get Perfect Layers

Chill each layer before adding the next for cleaner slices.
Use an offset spatula to spread buttercream and ganache smoothly.

How to Make It Extra Moist

Brush the sponge generously with coffee syrup for maximum flavor.

How to Achieve a Smooth Chocolate Glaze

Pour the glaze in the center and gently spread outward.
Let the glaze set completely before slicing for sharp edges.

5. Delicious Variations to Try

White Chocolate Opera Cake

Swap dark chocolate with white chocolate ganache for a sweeter version.

Hazelnut Opera Cake

Replace almond flour with hazelnut flour for a nutty twist.

Matcha Opera Cake

Add matcha powder to the buttercream for a green tea flavor.

6. Serving Suggestions

Pair this rich Opera Cake with:

A strong espresso or cappuccino for the perfect pairing.
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for contrast.
A drizzle of extra chocolate sauce for indulgence.

7. Storing and Making Ahead

How to Store Opera Cake

Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, covered to prevent drying.

Can You Freeze Opera Cake?

Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the fridge before serving.

8. Fun Facts About Opera Cake

Created by French pastry chef Cyriaque Gavillon in the 1950s.
The cake was named “Opera” because it resembles the layers of an opera house stage.
Opera Cake is a classic in French patisseries, often served in small, elegant squares.

9. Conclusion

This Opera Cake is a true masterpiece of French baking, with its perfect layers of almond sponge, coffee buttercream, and chocolate ganache. Although it requires patience and precision, the result is a rich, elegant dessert that’s worth every effort.

Try this classic Opera Cake recipe today, and impress everyone with this luxurious, bakery-worthy creation!

Opera Cake – A Classic French Layered Dessert

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Author: Joana

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