Title: Decadent French Chocolate Cake
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Description:
Indulge in the exquisite richness of this French Chocolate Cake, a dessert that brings together a dense, pudding-like texture with an intensely chocolaty flavor. Each slice melts in your mouth, creating a symphony of cocoa that delights both the palate and the soul. Perfectly complemented by a generous dollop of whipped cream or a tangy touch of sour cream, this cake is not just a treat for special occasions but also a delightful addition to your brunch table.
Recipe Category: Dessert
Keywords: European, Kid Friendly, Sweet, Brunch, Less than 60 Minutes, Oven
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bittersweet chocolate | 9 oz (255 g) |
| Butter | 1 cup (226 g) |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup (100 g) |
| Brandy or liqueur | 2 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 5 large |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | As needed |
| Sour cream | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 249.1 kcal |
| 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 |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Begin your journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, generously grease a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring that every nook and cranny is coated to prevent sticking. For added precaution, line the bottom with parchment paper and grease it again. -
Wrap for Protection:
To shield your cake from moisture during baking, wrap the bottom and sides of the pan with aluminum foil. This step is crucial, as it prevents water from seeping in when you place the springform pan in a water bath. -
Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the bittersweet chocolate, butter, and granulated sugar. Stir frequently until the mixture is completely melted and smooth, creating a luxurious chocolate base. Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before adding the brandy or liqueur, which will infuse the cake with a subtle depth of flavor. -
Mix the Eggs and Flour:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly with a whisk for about 1 minute. Gradually mix in the flour, ensuring there are no lumps. Then, slowly incorporate the cooled chocolate mixture, stirring until the batter is homogenous and velvety. -
Transfer to the Pan:
Pour the rich chocolate batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. For the baking process, place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Add boiling water to the roasting pan until it reaches about ¾ inch up the side of the springform pan, creating a gentle water bath that will keep your cake moist. -
Bake the Cake:
Slide the roasting pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know the cake is done when the edges are set while the center remains soft and slightly wobbly—a signature characteristic of this decadent dessert. -
Cool and Release:
Once baked, carefully remove the springform pan from the oven, taking care to remove the foil wrap immediately. Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack. As it cools, you’ll notice that the center will sink, forming its iconic slim shape. Don’t worry if the top cracks slightly; this adds to the cake’s rustic charm. -
Unmold the Cake:
When the cake has cooled completely, gently remove the sides of the springform pan. Turn the cake upside down onto a wire rack, lifting the pan base away and carefully peeling off the parchment paper from the bottom. -
Dust and Serve:
Cut six strips of parchment paper, each about 1 inch wide, and arrange them randomly over the top of the cooled cake to create a decorative pattern. Dust the entire surface generously with powdered sugar, then carefully lift away the strips to reveal a beautifully adorned cake. Finally, transfer the cake onto a serving platter. -
Final Touch:
Serve the decadent French Chocolate Cake with a generous spoonful of whipped cream or a dollop of sour cream on the side, enhancing its rich flavor profile and adding a delightful contrast.
Enjoy every bite of this exquisite dessert, whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple indulgence at home. The dense, fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor make it a favorite among kids and adults alike, bringing joy to any gathering or brunch spread.
With this guide, you’ll not only create a delicious cake but also craft a memorable experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
