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Rich and Fudgy Flourless Chocolate Cake: An Easy, Decadent Dessert

Close-up of a dense, rich slice of flourless chocolate cake served on a white plate.

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This recipe creates an intensely rich, fudgy flourless chocolate cake that is naturally gluten-free. It is simple to prepare and perfect for impressing guests at any dinner party or special occasion.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (or use a microwave in short bursts). Stir until completely smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Gently fold the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined.
  5. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the salt until stiff peaks form.
  6. Carefully fold one-third of the egg whites into the chocolate batter 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 cake pan.
  8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges will look set, and the center will still be soft. This cake will sink as it cools, creating a wonderful texture.
  9. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This ultra rich dessert firms up as it cools.
  10. Once cool, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra decadent chocolate cake, you can top this with a simple chocolate ganache made from 4 ounces of melted chocolate mixed with 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
  • This naturally gluten free dessert tastes best when served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
  • If you want crisp edges, bake for closer to 35 minutes; for a more fudgy center, aim for 30 minutes.

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