Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (plus more for pan)
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate (65% cacao or higher)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
Egg Mixture
- 6 eggs (separated)
- 1 whole egg
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided: 1/4 cup and 1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a springform pan with 1 tablespoon of butter and dust it with either sugar or cocoa powder. Set aside.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Melt the unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate together over simmering water in a double boiler for about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Separate Eggs: Separate the egg whites and yolks carefully, placing the yolks in one bowl and the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment.
- Whip Yolks and Egg: Whisk the six yolks together with the whole egg and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar on high speed using an electric mixer until pale yellow and thick enough to fall in a ribbon when the beaters are lifted, approximately 5 minutes. Add vanilla extract, kosher salt, cocoa powder, and instant espresso powder and continue beating for 30 seconds or until fully incorporated.
- Whip Egg Whites: Using a clean bowl and whisk attachment, whip the egg whites with cream of tartar on medium speed. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar and increase the speed to high. Beat until medium-stiff peaks form, which will provide volume and structure.
- Combine Chocolate and Yolk Mixtures: Slowly pour the cooled melted chocolate mixture into the yolk mixture while whisking gently to combine smoothly.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Using a spatula, gently fold half of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it, allowing a marbled appearance. Then fold in the remaining egg whites carefully, taking care not to overmix to keep the batter airy.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, gently smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges start pulling away from the pan.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing the springform ring. Dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant finish before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to gently fold in the egg whites to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture.
- If you don’t have espresso powder, you can omit it, but it enhances the chocolate flavor.
- The cream of tartar in the egg whites helps stabilize the meringue, but it’s optional.
- Use a springform pan to easily release the delicate soufflé cake without damage.
- Serve this cake with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French