French Chocolate Cake Recipe
Description
This French Chocolate Cake is a sumptuous dessert characterized by its dense, pudding-like texture and intensely rich chocolate flavor. It’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion, especially delightful when served with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a touch of sour cream for a delightful contrast.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Content | Per Serving (1/10 of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 249.1 |
| Total Fat | 20.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 154.6 mg |
| Sodium | 165.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 10.2 g |
| Protein | 3.4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bittersweet chocolate | 9 oz |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Brandy or liqueur | 2 tbsp |
| Eggs | 5 large |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | To taste |
| Sour cream (for serving) | Optional |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly and achieve that delightful texture.
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Prepare the Pan: Generously grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper and grease it again for easy removal later. To prevent any water from seeping in during the baking process, wrap the bottom and sides of the pan with aluminum foil.
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Melt the Mixture: In a saucepan set over low heat, combine the bittersweet chocolate, butter, and sugar. Stir frequently until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Once melted, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
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Incorporate the Brandy: Stir in the brandy or liqueur into the chocolate mixture, blending it thoroughly to infuse the flavor.
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Beat the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly for about one minute. This will help incorporate air into the batter, contributing to its lightness.
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Combine the Ingredients: Gradually beat in the flour, followed by the cooled chocolate mixture. Mix until everything is well blended and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
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Transfer to Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared springform pan.
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Set Up the Water Bath: Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Carefully add enough boiling water to the roasting pan so that it comes about ¾ inch up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath will help the cake bake gently and evenly.
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Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges of the cake should be set, but the center will remain soft and slightly wobbly.
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Cool the Cake: Once done, remove the springform pan from the oven and take off the foil. Let the cake cool on a cooling rack. It’s normal for the center to sink slightly as it cools, contributing to its classic look.
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Remove from the Pan: After cooling, gently release the sides of the springform pan. Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack, peeling off the parchment paper from the bottom.
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Dust with Sugar: Cut six strips of parchment paper, about 1-inch wide, and place them randomly across the top of the cake. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish, then carefully lift off the paper strips.
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Serve: Slide the cake onto a serving platter and enjoy it with a side of whipped cream or sour cream to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This French Chocolate Cake is perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat any day of the week. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a rich chocolate sauce for an ultimate dessert experience.
Keywords
European, Kid Friendly, Sweet, Brunch, < 60 Mins, Oven
This decadent cake will surely become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
