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Decadent 5-Ingredient Flourless Chocolate Cake

A close-up of a dense, dark slice of flourless chocolate cake resting on a white plate.

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You can create an intensely rich and fudgy dessert that melts in your mouth with this simple, naturally gluten-free flourless chocolate cake. It is perfect for special occasions or when you crave a truly indulgent chocolate experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
  2. Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (a double boiler). Stir until the mixture is completely smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and thick. Stir the vanilla extract into the yolk mixture.
  4. Gently fold the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined.
  5. In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  6. Carefully fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate base to lighten it. Then, gently fold in the remaining egg whites until no white streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan.
  8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges will look set, but the center will still be soft and slightly jiggly. This cake will likely sink as it cools, creating a classic cracked or fallen top.
  9. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. The cake will firm up as it cools.
  10. Once cool, carefully run a thin knife around the edge before releasing the springform side. Dust with powdered sugar or top with ganache before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra rich finish, prepare a simple ganache: Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until simmering. Pour over 4 ounces of chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Pour over the cooled cake.
  • This cake is naturally gluten free, making it a great option for many dietary needs.
  • Serve this melt in your mouth dessert with fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream.

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