Decadent Chocolate Cake

Decadent Chocolate Cake

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Decadent Chocolate Cake

 Luxury in a Flourless Decadent Chocolate Cake

If you’re looking for rich, indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth perfection… this is the one. This flourless chocolate cake is pure chocolate bliss having a dense, fudgy, and naturally gluten-free. It’s the kind of dessert that feels fancy but is secretly super simple to make.

Why you’ll love it:
– Only a handful of ingredients
– Naturally gluten-free
– Deep, intense chocolate flavor
– Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights

This cake is proof that sometimes less really is more. 🍽️

  • Author: Kari Jean - Joyista Life
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cooling Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 25-30
  • Total Time: approx. 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 1 8" cake (12 servings) 1x
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup (6 oz) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed or natural)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Wrap the outside of the pan tightly in 2 layers of foil to prevent water from leaking in.

  2. Melt chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (double boiler) or microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth.

  3. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, salt, and vanilla.

  4. Whisk in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  5. Sift in cocoa powder and stir just until combined and smooth.

  6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and tap gently to level.

  7. Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan.

  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cake is just set in the center and doesn’t jiggle when shaken gently.

  9. Carefully remove the cake pan from the water bath. Let cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge, then invert onto a plate and peel off parchment.

  10. Cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or top as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Water Bath Tip: Baking this cake in a water bath (bain-marie) helps achieve a silky, custard-like texture and prevents cracking. Be sure to wrap the pan tightly in foil to avoid water leaks.
  • Chocolate Matters: Use high-quality chocolate (60–70% cocoa) for the best flavor and texture. The better the chocolate, the more decadent the cake!
  • Serving Suggestion: This cake is incredibly rich, small slices go a long way. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Dietary Note: Naturally gluten-free! Always double-check your chocolate and cocoa to ensure no added gluten ingredients if serving someone with celiac disease.

Serve it with:
– A dusting of powdered sugar
– Fresh berries
– A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis

Pro tip:
For that signature silky top, let it cool completely before slicing. Want to level up? Add a pinch of sea salt or espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor. 😍

 

Ready to treat yourself?
This flourless chocolate cake isn’t just dessert, it’s a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring a quiet moment just for you, it’s a reminder that joy is found in the little things, like rich chocolate and a cake made with love. 💕

💙Tried it?  I’d love to hear what you think!  Leave a comment below or tag me in your creations @YourHandle. Let’s keep the joy flowing, one slice at a time.💙

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/12th of cake
  • Calories: 195
  • Fat: 14
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Protein: 3.5

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