Flourless Chocolate Cake
When you're thinking about dessert, few things evoke pleasure quite like chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, a flourless chocolate cake is a true marvel
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours hours
Total Time: 3 hours hours 45 minutes minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Flourless Chocolate Cake
Servings: 8
Calories: 300kcal
Chocolate Espresso Cake Base:
- 6 ounces 170g premium semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup 8 Tbsp; 113g unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 2/3 cup 135g white granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
- 1/3 cup 27g unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)
- 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon 15ml brewed coffee or hot water
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon optional
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder optional
Mocha Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup 240ml chilled heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon warm water
- 1 tablespoon 6g unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)
- 3 tablespoons 22g powdered sugar (confectioners’)
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for garnish
Step 1: Melting the Chocolate and Butter
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare an 8-inch round cake pan by greasing it lightly with butter and lining the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and cubed butter. Set this bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, creating a double boiler. Stir occasionally until everything is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until well combined. The mixture should become pale and fluffy. Gradually add the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract, instant espresso powder, cocoa powder, fine salt, and optional cinnamon. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Preparing the Batter
If you opted for it, and if you have it on hand, add the baking powder now. It helps create a slightly airy texture. Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Spread it out evenly and give the pan a bit of a tap on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Step 5: Making the Mocha Whipped Cream
While the cake cools, let's whip up that delicious mocha cream. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, espresso powder diluted in warm water, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip until soft peaks form. Don’t whip too long; you want a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Serving Your Creation
- Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality chocolate. The better the chocolate, the tastier your cake.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them combine better with your other ingredients, allowing for a smoother batter.
- Avoid Overbaking: It's better to have a slightly gooey middle than a dry cake. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Double the Recipe: If you're expecting guests, consider making two cakes. They freeze well for later indulgence.
- Add Flavors: Experiment with extracts or flavorings, like orange zest or almond extract, to give the cake a personal twist.
Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 18g