beatty’s chocolate cake
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake: It’s known for its elegance and taste. This recipe, made famous by Ina Garten, is all about rich chocolate and smooth buttercream icing.
Imagine eating a moist, chocolatey cake with creamy icing on top. It’s a treat that will make your taste buds happy. You can make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake at home.
This recipe is special because of its perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s a favorite in Ina Garten’s kitchen. It’s sure to impress your loved ones.
The Story Behind Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is loved by many. It has a rich history tied to Ina Garten’s cooking skills. This cake is famous for its deep flavor and the story it tells.
Who exactly is Beatty — and how did Ina Garten come across this beloved chocolate cake recipe?
“Beatty” is Beatty Robinson, a skilled baker. Ina Garten found his chocolate cake recipe. She brought it to widespread attention through her show, Barefoot Contessa.”
Ina Garten loves to explore new recipes. She came across this recipe while searching for the ultimate dessert to perfect.
Why This Chocolate Cake Became a Barefoot Contessa Favorite
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is moist and has a deep chocolate taste. Ina Garten’s way of making it special made it a hit. The cake’s velvety texture and creamy frosting won many hearts.
What Makes Beatty’s Chocolate Cake Special
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is special because of its top-notch ingredients and careful making. It’s loved for its smooth, chocolatey taste.
beatty's chocolate cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Stir in hot coffee until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
- For even baking results, divide the chocolate cake batter equally between the prepared pans and smooth the tops to create a level surface.
- Bake the cake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and crumb-free.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 30 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
The Secret Ingredients
The secret to Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is its ingredients. High-quality cocoa powder and buttermilk make it moist and flavorful. Pure vanilla extract adds a special touch. Here’s what each ingredient does:
| Ingredient | Role in the Recipe |
|---|---|
| Cocoa Powder | Provides the cake’s rich chocolate flavor |
| Buttermilk | Adds moisture and tenderness |
| Pure Vanilla Extract | Enhances the overall flavor |
The Unique Preparation Method
The magic of Beatty’s Chocolate Cake lies in its preparation — achieving its rich flavor depends on a precise and careful mixing process to create a silky-smooth batter. Using both granulated sugar and brown sugar makes it complex. Ina Garten’s recipe says not to overmix, so it stays light.
Essential Equipment for Baking Success
Baking success starts with the right gear. This is true when making Beatty’s Chocolate Cake. You’ll need some key baking tools to make your cake perfect.
Must-Have Baking Tools
To bake Beatty’s Chocolate Cake, you’ll need:
- A 9-inch round cake pan, preferably non-stick, to prevent the cake from sticking.
- A mixing bowl set for preparing the batter.
- A whisk for mixing dry ingredients.
- A rubber spatula for scraping the sides of the bowl.
- An electric mixer (stand or handheld) for creaming butter and sugar.
Ina Garten’s Recommended Brands
Ina Garten likes using high-quality baking tools from trusted brands. Some of her favorites include:
- All-Clad for their durable mixing bowls.
- KitchenAid for their reliable stand mixers.
- Anolon for their non-stick cake pans.
Using these essential baking tools and Ina Garten’s recommended brands will help you bake Beatty’s Chocolate Cake successfully.
Essential Ingredients for Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
To make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake, you need special ingredients. These ingredients make the cake taste and feel just right. Choosing high-quality ingredients is essential to bringing out the best flavor in the cake.
Dry Ingredients Breakdown
The dry ingredients are the cake’s base. They include:
- All-purpose flour: Gives the cake structure.
- Granulated sugar: Makes the cake sweet and soft.
- Cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate taste.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
- Salt: Brings out the flavors of other ingredients.
| Dry Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups | Structure |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups | Sweetness |
| Cocoa powder | 1 ½ cups | Chocolate flavor |
Wet Ingredients Breakdown
The wet ingredients make the cake moist and rich. They include:
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and softness.
- Large eggs: Makes the cake rich and holds everything together.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet flavor.
| Wet Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 1 cup | Moisture |
| Large eggs | 3 | Richness and binding |
| Vegetable oil | ½ cup | Moisture |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Flavor enhancement |
Knowing what each ingredient does helps you understand Beatty’s Chocolate Cake. It makes it easier to make a delicious cake.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
Creating Ina Garten’s iconic Beatty’s Chocolate Cake requires careful attention to each step of the process. You need to prepare your baking equipment, mix the batter right, and bake at the correct time and temperature.
Preparing Your Baking Equipment
Before mixing, make sure your baking equipment is ready. You’ll need two 9-inch round cake pans. Lightly coat the pans with butter, then dust them with flour to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Ensure your pans are properly prepared to achieve a smooth release after baking.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), positioning the racks in the upper and lower thirds for even baking.
Mixing the Batter Properly
Mixing the batter is key in making Beatty’s Chocolate Cake. Begin by whisking together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, and cocoa powder—in a large mixing bowl. Then, whisk wet ingredients like buttermilk, vegetable oil, and eggs in another bowl. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ones, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cake dense.
- Combine dry ingredients in one bowl.
- Whisk wet ingredients in another bowl.
- Gradually mix wet and dry ingredients together.
Baking Time and Temperature Tips
Baking the cake right is vital. Pour the batter equally into the prepared pans, leveling the surface with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Rotate the pans halfway through for even cooking. After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before cooling them completely on a wire rack.
“Ina Garten emphasizes that the secret to a moist cake lies in avoiding overbaking.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll make a delicious Beatty’s Chocolate Cake. Remember, the quality of your ingredients and precise preparation are key to a great result.
Recipes for Ina Garten’s Chocolate Cake and Her Signature Buttercream Frosting
The crowning touch on Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is Ina Garten’s signature buttercream icing. This icing is creamy and rich. It goes great with the moist chocolate cake.In this guide, we’ll walk through making Ina Garten’s classic buttercream icing and share a few irresistible chocolate cake recipes.
Buttercream Icing Ingredients
To make Ina Garten’s buttercream icing, you need:
- Use 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, allowing it to come to room temperature before mixing.
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Use unsalted butter for the best taste. Sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
Preparing the Perfect Buttercream
Start by beating the butter until it’s creamy. Then add the powdered sugar slowly, beating well each time. Add the salt, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
Beat the mix long to get it light and fluffy. You can change the thickness by adding more sugar or cream.
Icing Application Techniques
When your icing is ready, it’s time to ice your cake. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Apply a thin layer of frosting to the cake to create a crumb coat.
- Chill the cake for 10-15 minutes to set the crumb coat.
- Put on a final layer of icing with an offset spatula for a smooth top.
Follow these steps for a cake that looks amazing.
Expert Tips for Baking Success
Baking is a precise art that needs attention to detail. It also needs quality ingredients and practice. Whether you’re new or experienced, you can always get better.
Ina Garten’s Beatty’s Chocolate Cake shows the joy of careful baking. By following expert tips, you can make a cake that tastes great and looks amazing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is not measuring ingredients right. Using a digital scale helps a lot. Another mistake is overmixing, which makes the cake dense. Prepare the wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls, then gradually blend them together until just combined.
- Measure ingredients accurately using a digital scale.
- Avoid overmixing the batter.
- Use quality ingredients, such as real chocolate and unsalted butter.
Professional Techniques from Ina Garten
Ina Garten loves simple and elegant baking. She uses high-quality ingredients for better flavor. She also says it’s key to properly prepare your baking equipment, like greasing pans and dusting them with flour.
“Above all, baking should be a joyful and creative experience,” says Ina Garten.
Here’s a comparison of traditional baking and Ina Garten’s methods:
| Technique | Traditional Method | Ina Garten’s Method |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring Ingredients | Using cups | Using a digital scale |
| Mixing Batter | Mixing until just combined | Mixing wet and dry ingredients separately |
| Ingredient Quality | Using substitutes | Using high-quality ingredients |
By using these expert tips, you’ll get better at baking. Remember, practice is key. Don’t get upset by mistakes.
Variations of Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
Want to make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake your own? There are many ways to do it. You can make it for special diets or just to try something new. These changes can make your dessert truly unique.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
To make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour mix. Look for one with rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. Gluten-free cakes are delicate, so you might need to adjust the flour mix and add xanthan gum for better texture.
Vegan Version
For a vegan version, replace eggs, milk, and butter with plant-based options. Use flax eggs or applesauce for eggs, and almond or soy milk for regular milk. Vegan butter or coconut oil can replace butter. Use dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it chocolatey.
Flavor Enhancements and Add-ins
Baking is all about trying new flavors and add-ins. Beatty’s Chocolate Cake can be made even better with different ingredients.
Coffee and Espresso Infusions
Adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder can make the chocolate taste even better. It’s great for those who love coffee and chocolate together.
Liqueur and Extract Options
A little liqueur, like Kahlúa or Grand Marnier, can make the cake more complex. Vanilla or almond extracts can also add a nice flavor.
Fruit and Nut Additions
Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can give the cake texture and taste. Dried fruits, like cranberries or cherries, can add a fruity touch to the rich chocolate.
Perfect Occasions for Serving Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is perfect for big celebrations and cozy family dinners. It’s a rich, decadent treat that will wow your guests. It’s great for any size party or small get-together.
Celebration Events
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is ideal for many celebration events. Here are some great times to serve it:
- Birthdays
- Anniversaries
- Weddings
- Graduation parties
Its rich taste and fancy look make it a hit at any party.
Casual Gatherings and Family Dinners
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is also perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners. It’s a comforting dessert that makes any night special. Try it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra yum.
Conclusion: Why Beatty’s Chocolate Cake Remains a Timeless Classic
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is loved by many. Its rich, velvety texture and perfect flavors make it special. Adding Ina Garten’s buttercream icing takes it to another level.
This cake is simple yet elegant. It needs just a few good ingredients and easy steps to make. You can also make it in different ways, like gluten-free or vegan.
Learning to bake this cake is rewarding. With Ina Garten’s help and the right icing, you’ll make treats that impress everyone. Your family and friends will love them.
FAQ?
What is Beatty’s Chocolate Cake?
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is a famous dessert by Ina Garten. It’s from her Barefoot Contessa cookbook.This cake is delightfully moist and topped with a decadent layer of rich buttercream frosting.
Who is Beatty, and how did Ina Garten discover the recipe?
Beatty’s Chocolate Cake comes from a friend named Beatty. Ina Garten got the recipe from them. The exact story is not well-known, but the cake is a favorite of hers.
Can I make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake gluten-free. Just use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour. But it might taste a bit different.
What type of chocolate is best for Beatty’s Chocolate Cake?
Use dark or semisweet chocolate for the best taste. Ina Garten says to use good chocolate for both the cake and icing.
How do I prepare the buttercream icing for Beatty’s Chocolate Cake?
To make the icing, mix butter, confectioners’ sugar, and chocolate until smooth. Ina Garten’s recipe has all the steps to get it right.
Can I make Beatty’s Chocolate Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers early and keep them in a sealed container. You can also make the icing ahead and chill or freeze it until you’re ready.
What are some variations I can try with Beatty’s Chocolate Cake recipe?
Try adding coffee, espresso, liqueurs, or extracts to the batter for new flavors. You can also add nuts or dried fruit for a special twist.
Is Beatty’s Chocolate Cake suitable for special occasions?
Yes! Beatty’s Chocolate Cake is great for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. It’s rich and looks elegant.
