A show-stopping dessert that combines rich milk chocolate with light, airy meringue for an unforgettable taste experience.
Servings 8servings
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Ingredients
For the Meringue
4largelarge egg whites
1cupgranulated sugar
1/4teaspooncream of tartar
Pinchsalt
For the Ganache and Filling
1cupmilk chocolate, chopped
1cupheavy creamdivided as 1/2 cup for ganache and 1/2 cup for whipped cream
1teaspoonvanilla extract
For Dusting
Cocoa powderoptional, for dusting
Method
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add in the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff and glossy peaks form. Add the cream of tartar and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined.
Baking the Meringue
Spread the meringue mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheets to create two 8-inch circles.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until the meringue is dry and easily lifts off the parchment.
Turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool inside for an additional hour.
Making the Ganache
In a saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
Remove from heat, add the chopped chocolate, and stir until smooth.
Assembling the Cake
Once the meringues are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.
Spread a layer of chocolate ganache on top, followed by whipped cream mixed with vanilla extract.
Top with the second meringue layer and repeat the process.
Chilling and Serving
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and for easier slicing.
Dust the top with cocoa powder before serving if desired.
If you're out of heavy cream, you can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative. Optional: Add fresh berries between the layers for a fruity twist. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.