Why do people love flourless chocolate cake? There are a variety of benefits that appeal to different preferences and dietary restrictions. For example, since flourless chocolate cake does not contain any wheat flour, it is naturally gluten-free. This makes it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or those who simply choose to follow a gluten-free diet. What appeals to me most is the rich dense texture and intense chocolate flavor of these flourless cakes. Well, that and the simple ingredient list and instructions that result in an easy yet impressive dessert.
Skip down to the easy-print version of this recipe.
Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe
Servings: 8
This wonderful flourless chocolate cake is a family favorite. A recipe doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious. Perfect for any celebration! This three-ingredient chocolate cake will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients
Here’s all you need:
6 eggs
12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
OPTIONAL:
Strawberries for decoration, cut in half (optional)
Powdered sugar (optional)
With so few ingredients and no complex baking techniques required, this recipe is inherently straightforward. With the absence of flour, there’s no need for sifting or incorporating the flour gradually. We love the quick preparation time! A word of caution: While the directions seem easy, achieving the perfect texture and flavor still requires attention to detail such as properly melting the chocolate and monitoring the baking time.
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 6 or 7-inch round springform pan.
Next, melt the chocolate chips with the butter together in the microwave. Heat at 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning, until the chocolate melts and the mixture forms a smooth paste. If you prefer to do it old school, melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler stirring frequently.
Then add the whipped eggs from the first step into the chocolate mixture slowly, adding small portions at a time. Stir by hand with a large spatula after you add each portion until no egg streaks remain.
Easy Print Version:
Three Ingredient Flourless Chocolate Cake
Equipment
- you'll need a springform pan
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 6 or 7 inch round springform pan.
- Crack the eggs into the mixing bowl, then whip on high speed for seven to ten minutes. You are done when the eggs are triple in volume, are stiff, and have a pale-yellow color.
- Melt the chocolate chips with the butter together in the microwave. Heat at 30 second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning, until the chocolate melts and the mixture forms a smooth paste. If you prefer to do it old school, melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler stirring frequently.
- Add the whipped eggs from the first step into the chocolate mixture slowly, adding small portions at a time. Stir by hand with a large spatula after you add each portion until no egg streaks remain.
- When ready, pour batter into pan and bake for 40-50 minutes in your preheated oven until the top is puffy and cracked. Remove your cake from oven and let it cool.
- Remove the cake from the springform pan, cool and enjoy!
- Optional: Decorate the top with strawberries and/or powdered sugar if desired. This cake goes really well with vanilla ice cream!
Notes
FAQs About Gluten-Free Desserts
Here are some commonly asked questions we hear about gluten-free desserts.
What is gluten?
Gluten is a mixture of proteins found in wheat and other grains such as barley and rye. It provides elasticity to dough and helps it rise.
What does gluten-free mean?
Gluten-free refers to a diet that excludes the protein gluten. For people with gluten sensitivity, intolerance, or celiac disease, consuming gluten can cause various health issues.
What flours can I use in gluten-free baking?
Common gluten-free flours include almond flour, coconut flour, rice flour, tapioca flour, and gluten-free oat flour. These flours can be used alone or in combination to achieve desired textures in baked goods.
How do I substitute regular flour in recipes for gluten-free flour?
You can replace regular flour with gluten-free flour in most recipes. However, gluten-free flours may absorb liquids differently, so it’s often necessary to adjust the quantity and add binding agents like xanthan gum or guar gum to improve texture. When and How to Substitute Gluten-Free Flours in Baking
Can I use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a direct substitute for regular flour?
Yes, there are gluten-free all-purpose flours available that can be used as a 1:1 substitute for regular all-purpose flour in many recipes. However, some experimentation may be needed for optimal results.
Are there gluten-free alternatives for common dessert ingredients?
Yes, there are gluten-free alternatives for ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, and flavorings. It’s essential to check labels to ensure all components of a recipe are gluten-free.
What are some naturally gluten-free desserts?
Many fruits, chocolates, custards, ice creams, and meringues are naturally gluten-free. Desserts that rely on these ingredients without the addition of gluten-containing items can be enjoyed by those on a gluten-free diet.
Are gluten-free desserts healthier?
No, gluten-free desserts are not necessarily healthier than their gluten-containing counterparts. They can still contain sugar, fats, and calories. It’s crucial to balance a gluten-free diet with a variety of nutritious foods.
Where can I find gluten-free dessert recipes?
There are numerous gluten-free dessert recipes available online, in cookbooks, and on dedicated gluten-free recipe websites. Many food blogs also provide a variety of tested and reviewed gluten-free dessert options. Here are some examples of gluten-free desserts:
Leslie Farin is the Publisher and Founder of 50PlusToday. She is an experienced communications and marketing professional passionate about working with older adults and their families. She works with a team of writers to provide essential and cutting-edge information related to the 50Plus community.