Name: Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped); ¾ cup butter (cut into pieces); 6 large eggs (separated); 12 tablespoons sugar (divided); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

A Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. This decadent dessert is rich, fudgy, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a masterpiece that showcases the intense flavor of chocolate while remaining gluten-free.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Flourless Chocolate Cake is not only easy to make but also pleases a wide range of palates. Its dense, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor are irresistible. The ganache topping adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it feel special enough for celebrations, yet simple enough for a weeknight dessert. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for a stunning presentation that will leave your guests raving.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delightful cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

12 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped – Choose a high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
¾ cup butter, cut into pieces – This adds richness and helps create a smooth texture.
6 large eggs, separated – The egg whites will be whipped to create a light texture, while the yolks add richness.
12 tablespoons sugar, divided – This sweetens the cake and helps with the structure.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor to the cake.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start baking, gather the necessary equipment:

9-inch round cake pan – Ensure it’s greased or lined for easy removal.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – For melting the chocolate and butter.
Mixing bowls – You’ll need separate bowls for egg whites and yolks.
Electric mixer – A hand mixer or stand mixer works well for whipping the egg whites.
Spatula – For folding the mixture together gently.
Cooling rack – To cool the cake once it’s baked.

Cooking Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping: The Process

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semisweet chocolate and butter. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Yolks

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks with 6 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate Mixture and Egg Yolks

Once the chocolate and butter mixture has cooled slightly, slowly add it to the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously. This prevents the eggs from cooking.

Step 5: Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 6 tablespoons of sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 6: Fold Egg Whites into Chocolate Mixture

Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain. Be gentle to avoid deflating the mixture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cake has set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare Ganache

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a cooling rack. To make the ganache, heat 6 ounces of semisweet chocolate with ½ cup of heavy cream over a double boiler or in the microwave until melted. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 9: Top the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let it set for a bit before slicing.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

This Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping is versatile and can be adapted for any season:

Spring: Serve with fresh strawberries or a raspberry coulis for a light, fruity contrast.
Summer: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkle with toasted coconut.
Fall: Add a hint of spice by mixing in cinnamon or nutmeg and top with caramel sauce.
Winter: Serve warm with peppermint whipped cream for a festive touch.

Problems & Prevention

When baking, a few common issues can arise. Here are some tips to prevent them:

Dense Cake: Be careful not to overmix the batter once the egg whites are added. Gently folding is key to keeping the cake light and airy.
Cracked Top: If the oven temperature is too high, the cake may crack. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated.
Sticking to the Pan: Always grease the pan well or use parchment paper to line the bottom for easy removal.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. The cake should still feel slightly soft in the center when you remove it from the oven.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping can be stored and enjoyed later. Here’s how:

Room Temperature: The cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered to prevent drying out.
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just cover it with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Freezer: This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Common Qs About Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the cake a deeper flavor. Just be mindful of the sweetness and adjust the sugar if necessary.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! This cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen as it sits.

What can I use instead of butter?

For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Just make sure it’s solid at room temperature.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that your Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping is ready, slice it into generous pieces and serve. This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or fresh berries. Each bite is a glorious explosion of chocolate that is sure to delight anyone lucky enough to have a slice.

Indulge in the rich flavors and enjoy the compliments that come your way! This Flourless Chocolate Cake with Ganache Topping is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy and happiness to every gathering. Get ready to celebrate chocolate in its most glorious form!