Dark Chocolate Sponge Cake

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and position a rack in the center. Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour.

   Tip: Use parchment paper for easy cake release.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

   Tip: Sift the dry ingredients to ensure they are well combined.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, combine the dark chocolate, granulated sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder.

   Tip: Use a spatula to break up any lumps in the chocolate.

4. 4

   Add the softened butter to the chocolate mixture and use an electric mixer to beat until the mixture is smooth.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. 5

   Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk and vanilla extract.

   Tip: Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

6. 6

   Add the flour mixture to the chocolate mixture and mix until just combined.

   Tip: Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a dense cake.

7. 7

   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking pan.

   Tip: Use a spatula to spread the batter smoothly.

8. 8

   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

   Tip: Don't overbake, as this can cause the cake to dry out.

9. 9

   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.

   Tip: Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. 10

    Once the cake is cool, dust it with confectioners' sugar and serve.

    Tip: You can also frost the cake with a dark chocolate glaze for an extra-special treat.

11. 11

    To make a dark chocolate glaze, melt 100g of dark chocolate in a double boiler and whisk in 20g of confectioners' sugar until smooth.

    Tip: Drizzle the glaze over the cake just before serving.