6 . To make the ganache , place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl , using the smaller amount of each ingredient if you will be decorating the cake with crumbs and the larger amount if you will not . Bring the cream to just under a boil in a small saucepan . Pour the cream over the chocolate . Let the mixture sit for a few minutes without stirring until the chocolate is partially melted , and then stir with a rubber spatula until smooth and shiny .
7 . To assemble the cake , split each cake into 2 layers to make 4 layers in all . Transfer 1 layer to a serving plate . Using an offset spatula , spread 3 tablespoons of the caramel evenly over the cake layer . Spread a thin layer of ganache ( about 1 ⁄ 4-inch thick ) over the caramel . Top with a second cake layer , and again spread with 3 tablespoons caramel and then a thin layer of ganache . Top with the fourth cake layer . Refrigerate the cake until the center seems firm , 1 to 2 hours . Cover the remaining ganache with plastic wrap and leave at room temperature for finishing the cake .
8 . Remove the cake from the refrigerator . Using the rest of the ganache , frost the top and sides of the cake with the offset spatula . If you are going to coat the cake with the toasted cake crumbs , the cake must be evenly frosted and the ganache must be
soft enough for the crumbs to adhere . If the ganache has hardened , use a kitchen torch to soften it slightly , or put the whole cake into a 400 F oven for 10 seconds or so , just until the chocolate looks shiny . Sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the top of the cake , then tilt and turn the cake so that they spill over the sides , adhering to them as they fall . If you are using only the ganache and not the crumbs , the ganache will be thicker on both the top and sides .
9 . Serve the cake at room temperature . To store , cover tightly and keep in a cool place for up to 4 days . It is not necessary to keep this cake in the refrigerator . n
This Valentine ’ s Day , couples can share their love for decadent delights by working alongside one another to whip up this recipe .
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