Chocolate Loaf Cake with Whipped Ganache

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## **Instructions**

### **1. Prepare the Cake Batter**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together both sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Stir in the buttermilk, then gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Pour in the hot coffee (or water) and mix gently. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal!
6. Fold in the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips for extra richness.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for **45-50 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

### **2. Make the Whipped Ganache**
1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (don’t let it boil).
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for **1-2 minutes**, then stir until smooth.
3. Allow the ganache to cool at room temperature for about **30 minutes**, stirring occasionally.
4. Once slightly thickened, use an electric mixer to whip the ganache for **2-3 minutes**, until it becomes light and fluffy.

### **3. Assemble the Cake**
1. Spread or pipe the whipped ganache over the cooled chocolate loaf cake.
2. Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
3. Slice and enjoy!

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## **Tips & Variations**
– **No buttermilk?** Use regular milk mixed with **1/2 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice** and let it sit for 5 minutes.
– **More indulgence?** Add chopped nuts, chocolate chunks, or a drizzle of caramel on top.
– **Storage:** Keep at room temperature for **2 days**, or refrigerate for up to **5 days**.

This *Chocolate Loaf Cake with Whipped Ganache* is the perfect balance of rich and light, making it a must-try for chocolate lovers. Enjoy a slice with coffee, milk, or on its own as a delightful treat!