EASY Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Ingredients

• 180 g Semi‑Sweet Chocolate (Bar chocolate, 60‑70% cacao, chopped into small uniform pieces)
• 120 ml Heavy Cream (Full‑fat, for classic ganache; can be warmed to steaming)
• 120 ml Water (Very hot, for thin water ganache; can be substituted with hot coffee for mocha flavor)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional, adds depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp Bourbon (Optional, for spiked truffles; add after ganache is smooth)

Instructions

1. Chop the Chocolate

   Place the semi‑sweet chocolate on a cutting board and chop into small, uniform pieces about 1‑2 cm each. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.

   Time: PT5M

2. Warm the Liquid

   For the classic ganache, pour 120 ml heavy cream into a saucepan and heat over medium heat until just steaming (about 80‑85°C) – do not let it boil. For the water ganache, heat 120 ml water (or coffee) to a rolling boil, then remove from heat.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 80‑85°C

3. Combine Hot Liquid and Chocolate

   Pour the hot cream (or water) over the chopped chocolate in the bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to begin melting.

   Time: PT2M

4. Stir to a Silky Emulsion

   Using a small spoon or spatula, gently stir the mixture in a circular motion until fully smooth and glossy. Avoid whisking aggressively to keep air out of the ganache.

   Time: PT3M

5. Adjust Consistency (Optional)

   If the ganache is too thick for your intended use, add a teaspoon of warm cream (or water) at a time, stirring after each addition. If too thin, let it cool a few minutes or add a small amount of finely chopped chocolate.

   Time: PT2M

6. Flavor and Finish

   Stir in optional flavorings such as vanilla extract or bourbon once the ganache is smooth. Use immediately for drizzling, dipping, or let cool for truffle making.

   Time: PT1M

7. Store or Use

   If not using right away, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 1 week. Re‑warm gently (microwave 50% power or stovetop over low heat) before using.

   Time: PT4M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

180

Protein

2 g

Carbohydrates

20 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

2 g