Elegant, verging on ethereal, the entremet is a true celebration of artistic flourish and the meticulousness of French pâtisserie converging. Like a symphony, each component plays on distinctive flavors and textures all marrying together to create a harmonious, multilayered marvel. Rich, chocolaty, and brilliantly balanced, the entremet is a cake like no other, requiring an astute attention to detail and a steady hand. With our tried-and-tested recipes and step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to expertly craft a crisp feuilletine-like base; light, airy mousse; rich, coffee-forward filling; and gorgeously glossy Chocolate Mirror Glaze and then walk you through this dessert’s stunning assembly. If you’ve been looking to branch out and expand your baking knowledge, this beautiful cake provides ample opportunity to learn and a result that’s sure to wow.
CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT ENTREMET
Makes 1 (9-inch) cake
Delightfully decadent, rich, and awe-inspiring, our Chocolate Hazelnut Entremet is as finessed as it is flavorful. The stunning Chocolate Mirror Glaze is just a hint of the impressive layering that lies inside. A treasure trove of textures and flavors, with a crunchy Chocolate Hazelnut Crisp, a cocoa- and coffee-rich Mocha Filling, a tender layer of chocolate cake, and a light and luscious Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse, this intricate bake is chocolate cake taken to a new level.
⅓ cup (42 grams) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon (2.5 grams) baking powder
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ cup (60 grams) hot brewed coffee
3 tablespoons (15 grams) Dutch process cocoa powder
3 tablespoons (45 grams) whole milk
⅓ cup (73 grams) firmly packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons (28 grams) neutral oil
2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsweetened applesauce
½ teaspoon (2 grams) vanilla extract
Chocolate Hazelnut Crisp (recipe follows)
Mocha Filling (recipe follows)
Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse (recipe follows)
Chocolate Mirror Glaze (recipe follows)
Garnish: lightly toasted hazelnuts, chocolate curls
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (170°C). Spray an 8-inch round cake pan with baking spray with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, whisk together hot coffee and cocoa until smooth. Whisk in milk. Add brown sugar, oil, applesauce, and vanilla, and whisk until combined. Gradually add flour mixture, whisking just