Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe

Decadent, rich, and gloriously fudgy, Flourless Chocolate Cake is pure, chocolatey indulgence—no flour (or gluten) required. It’s the kind of dessert that feels simultaneously fancy and effortless: think velvety centers, crisp tops, and just a dusting of powdered sugar to crown each slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Flourless Chocolate Cake calls for only a few simple ingredients, but each one is essential. Every element contributes to its rich flavor, creamy texture, and classic crackly top—so quality really shines through here!

• Semisweet chocolate chips: The backbone of the cake—choose good quality chips for the deepest chocolate flavor and luxurious texture.
• Unsalted butter: Melts with the chocolate for richness, silkiness, and that classic buttery undertone.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the delicate crackly crust you’ll fall in love with.
• Instant espresso powder (optional): Accentuates and deepens the chocolate flavor—your secret weapon for next-level intensity.
• Fine salt: Balances sweetness and brings the chocolate to life.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to complement the cocoa.
• Eggs plus an extra yolk: Essential for structure, binding, and that perfectly rich, almost truffle-like texture.
• Dutch-process cocoa: Lends robust flavor and the signature deep color—sift it for extra smoothness!
• Chilled heavy cream: Whipped and folded in for an airy lift and melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• For the topping: powdered sugar, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and fresh strawberries or raspberries: The perfect finish—each element adds contrast and elevates the whole experience.

Variations

The beauty of Flourless Chocolate Cake is how easy it is to tweak to your tastes or pantry—just a few creative swaps or additions can make this cake uniquely yours. Don’t be afraid to mix things up based on what you love or need!

• Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for a hint of warmth and gentle heat.
• Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds for crunch and depth.
• Citrus Zest: Grate a little orange or lemon zest into the batter for a bright, vibrant note that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and full-fat coconut cream in place of butter and cream—your cake will still be luscious and dreamy.

How to Make Flourless Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8-inch round (3 inches deep!) cake pan with nonstick spray, then line the bottom with a parchment round and spray again. This double-greasing is your insurance for smooth, stress-free unmolding later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate & Butter

In a big microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Gently heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until both are just barely melted. Stir until smooth and shining—this base will set the tone for your whole cake!

Step 3: Add Sugar, Espresso, Salt & Vanilla

Whisk the sugar, instant espresso powder (if using), salt, and vanilla into your chocolate-butter mixture. Mix until well blended, then let it cool slightly—you don’t want to scramble your eggs in the next step!

Step 4: Whisk in the Eggs & Cocoa Powder

Add all three eggs plus the extra yolk at once, whisking vigorously until the batter becomes thick, glossy, and smooth. Sift in the cocoa and whisk just until it disappears—overmixing isn’t invited to this party!

Step 5: Fold in the Whipped Cream

In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream to medium peaks (it should hold soft ridges). Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate batter. Go slowly—the air creates the cake’s signature light-yet-fudgy bite.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes—look for set edges and a slightly wobbly, puffed center. The cake is done when the middle reaches at least 200°F. This wobbly-ness is your friend; it settles into creamy fudginess as it cools!

Step 7: Cool, Chill & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes—it’ll deflate slightly (that’s normal!). Loosen around the edges with a knife, then let it cool completely before covering and refrigerating. For the dreamiest consistency, chill for at least 6 hours or overnight. Serve chilled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and your favorite toppings.

How to Serve Flourless Chocolate Cake

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar is classic and elegant, but don’t stop there—top your Flourless Chocolate Cake with clouds of whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, and a scattering of fresh berries for brightness and color. A drizzle of chocolate ganache takes it straight to restaurant-level luxury!

Side Dishes

Keep things simple and let the cake shine! Serve alongside a bowl of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or offer a platter of fresh raspberries and strawberries for guests to top their slices as they wish. A small espresso or cup of coffee is the perfect finishing touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, slice the cake into thin wedges and fan them out on a platter. Individual slices can be plated with a streak of berry coulis or chocolate sauce for drama. For a festive twist, serve the cake topped with chocolate shavings, or layer slices between fresh whipped cream in parfait glasses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Flourless Chocolate Cake keeps beautifully! Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to three days—the flavor only deepens!

Freezing

To freeze, wrap slices (or the whole cake) well in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

Enjoy slices chilled straight from the fridge for a denser, fudge-like treat—or let stand at room temperature for 20–30 minutes for a softer texture. To gently warm, microwave individual slices for 10–12 seconds for an extra melty experience.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a showstopper that’s pure chocolate bliss with a fraction of the fuss, you simply have to try this Flourless Chocolate Cake. It’s a joy to make and even more delightful to eat—so gather those ingredients and treat yourself (and everyone you love) to this irresistible classic!

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