Calling all chocolate lovers!

In honour of Chocolate Cake Day, our amazing Chefs are here to guide you through making the world-famous Sacher Torte!

Did you know that Sacher Torte was invented in 1832 by a 16-year-old apprentice chef named Franz Sacher? He created the cake for a banquet hosted by Austrian Prince Klemens Wenzel von Metternich. This iconic chocolate dessert, layered with apricot jam and covered in a smooth chocolate glaze, is now one of Austria’s most famous sweets! The original recipe remains a closely guarded secret of the Hotel Sacher in Vienna.

Follow these simple steps, and treat your taste buds to the ultimate chocolatey indulgence.

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare the Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 160°C. Grease and flour a 20cm round springform pan.
• Melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave, then set aside to cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well. Stir in the cooled chocolate and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in batches. Sift the flour over the batter and fold in gently until combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Add the Filling:

• Slice the cake horizontally into two layers. Spread the apricot jam evenly over the bottom layer, then place the top layer back on.

Make the Glaze:

• Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just below boiling, then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.

Pour the glaze over the cake, using a spatula to smooth it over the top and sides evenly.

Give it a try, and surprise your guests with this show-stopping dessert!