Name: Flourless Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional toppings:; Powdered sugar; Cocoa powder; Whipped cream; Fresh berries or berry compote

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a dream for anyone who loves bold, intense chocolate. Without flour to dilute its richness, the chocolate flavor stands front and center. The texture is somewhere between a brownie and a truffle—ultra-moist, silky, and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, yet the result is impressive and luxurious. It also keeps beautifully and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Vanilla extract

Optional toppings:

Powdered sugar
Cocoa powder
Whipped cream
Berries or berry compote

Directions

Preheat your oven and line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper. Grease the sides.
In a double boiler or microwave, melt the chocolate and butter together until smooth. Stir well to combine.
Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar until fully incorporated.
Let the mixture cool slightly, then beat in the eggs one at a time.
Sift in the cocoa powder and add salt and vanilla. Stir until the batter is smooth and glossy.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly—do not overbake.
Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least a few hours to set.
Once chilled, remove from the pan, dust with powdered sugar or cocoa if desired, and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 to 30 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 2 to 3 hours
Total time: About 3 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

Espresso Infused: Add a shot of espresso or a teaspoon of instant coffee for deeper flavor.
Orange Zest: Stir in orange zest for a citrus-chocolate pairing.
Nutty Version: Add finely ground almonds or hazelnuts to the batter.
Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warm, spicy twist.
Mint Chocolate: Replace vanilla with mint extract for a refreshing variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serve chilled or at room temperature depending on your texture preference.
For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
This cake does not require reheating and is best served cold or slightly warmed if desired.

FAQs

What makes flourless chocolate cake different from regular chocolate cake?

It has no flour, resulting in a denser, fudgier texture and a more intense chocolate flavor.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, naturally. Just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I use milk chocolate?

Milk chocolate can be used, but the cake will be sweeter and less rich. Dark chocolate is recommended for the best flavor.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day after it’s had time to set and develop its flavor.

Do I need a springform pan?

A springform pan makes removal easier, but you can use a regular cake pan lined well with parchment paper.

Why did my cake crack?

Cracks can happen due to rapid temperature changes. Let it cool gradually and chill before serving for best presentation.

Can I skip the cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder adds depth and structure. It’s not recommended to skip it, but you can reduce the amount slightly.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and chocolate alternatives to suit your needs.

What should I serve with it?

Whipped cream, fresh berries, berry compote, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce pair wonderfully with the richness of the cake.

Conclusion

Flourless chocolate cake is a timeless dessert that delivers on elegance, flavor, and texture without needing any flour. Whether you’re baking for a gluten-free guest or simply want to indulge in something decadently chocolatey, this cake never fails to impress. It’s the kind of dessert that feels both effortless and gourmet—a must-have in any baker’s repertoire.