For the Cake:
4 oz semi sweet chocolate, chopped fine
6 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
pinch of salt
3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

For the Whipped Filling:
1 1/4 cup heavy cream, cold
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract or scrapings from 1 vanilla bean
1-2 teaspoons peppermint extract (start with one teaspoon and add more according to your taste).

For the Ganache:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate pieces
2/3 cups heavy cream