Disney's Wilderness Lodge's Whispering Canyon Café'
Yield: 12 servings.
1 chocolate cake recipe or boxed cake product
Kahlúa simple sugar syrup:
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
2 cups Kahlúa
Chocolate mousse:
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Bittersweet chocolate ganache:
2 1/2 cups bittersweet chocolate
2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons brandy
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Garnishes:
Whipped cream, chocolate syrup and maraschino cherry
1. Prepare your favorite chocolate cake recipe or boxed cake product. Cut off the skin from the top of the cake and slice off the top to level at the same time if necessary. You will need to make three cuts using a slicing knife to transfer the cut layers of cake.
2. For the simple sugar syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water and Kahlúa. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Continue cooking without stirring until the mixture is the consistency of syrup, about five minutes longer. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool to room temperature.
3. For the mousse, position a large bowl of iced water near the stove. In a saucepan, combine the chocolate and heavy cream. Place over medium heat until the chocolate begins to melt and the cream is almost simmering. Whisk or stir until the chocolate and cream are smooth. Stir in the vanilla and powdered sugar. Remove from the heat and place the pan in the bowl of ice water. Whisk until the mixture is creamy smooth and softly holds its shape. Spoon into a serving bowl and chill for two hours.
4. To assemble, brush each layer evenly with simple syrup. Next, smooth on chocolate mousse until you have assembled a three-layer cake. With the ganache, frost top of the cake, just enough to cover, and use the remaining to cover the sides of the cake.
5. Serve with whipped cream, chocolate syrup and cherry.
The Whispering Canyon Café is at Disney's Wilderness Lodge in Lake Buena Vista. The resort features a lush Northwestern American decor throughout. For dining information, call 407-939-3463.
Source: Orlandosentinal
