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Easy, Decadent Flourless Chocolate Cake with Simple Ganache

A decadent, dark flourless chocolate cake dusted with powdered sugar, with one slice cut and slightly pulled away.

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Make this rich, fudgy flourless chocolate cake. It is naturally gluten-free and simple to prepare, perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients

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

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 cool slightly.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick, about 2 minutes. 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. Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully 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, but the center will still be soft.
  9. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. The cake will sink as it cools, creating a natural indentation.
  10. Once cool, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • For a simple chocolate ganache topping, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over 4 ounces of chopped dark chocolate. Let stand for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Let it cool slightly before pouring over the cake.
  • This cake is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding flour.
  • For an elegant presentation, serve with fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream.

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