This flourless chocolate cake is a decadent and rich dessert that is surprisingly simple to make. It’s perfect for those who are gluten-free or simply love the intense flavor of chocolate. This cake has a dense and fudgy texture that is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s craving. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, this flourless chocolate cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Flourless Chocolate Cake
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee
- 16 oz (450g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Whipped cream or ice cream, for serving (optional)
How to Make Flourless Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper as well.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the sugar and coffee, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the chopped chocolate to the saucepan and stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract until frothy.
- Slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake, then remove the sides of the pan.
- Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 5: Serve
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar, if desired.
- Slice the cake and serve with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the cake. It also helps to create a moist and tender texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and also helps to create a tender texture. It dissolves in the melted butter and coffee, adding sweetness to the chocolate mixture.
Coffee
Strong brewed coffee enhances the flavor of the chocolate and adds depth to the cake. It does not make the cake taste like coffee; rather, it intensifies the chocolate flavor.
Bittersweet Chocolate
Bittersweet chocolate provides the main chocolate flavor in the cake. It is important to use high-quality chocolate for the best results. The chocolate is melted with the butter and sugar to create a smooth and rich chocolate mixture.
Eggs
Eggs help to bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake. They also add moisture and richness to the cake, resulting in a dense and fudgy texture.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake, adding a subtle sweetness and depth. It complements the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar is used for dusting the top of the cake. It adds a touch of sweetness and a decorative finish to the cake.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream
Whipped cream or ice cream can be served alongside the cake for added indulgence. They complement the rich and fudgy texture of the cake and add a creamy element to each bite.
By understanding the role of each ingredient, you can appreciate the simplicity and indulgence of this flourless chocolate cake. It’s a dessert that is sure to impress with its intense chocolate flavor and fudgy texture.