Flourless Chocolate Cake (Often a Torte, Intensely Rich)

Flourless Chocolate Cake, often referred to as a chocolate torte, is the ultimate dessert for true chocolate lovers. Dense, fudgy, and intensely rich, this decadent cake delivers deep chocolate flavor without using any flour, making it naturally gluten-free and irresistibly indulgent. With a silky interior and a thin, crackly top, this classic dessert strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

Unlike traditional chocolate cakes that rely on flour for structure, flourless chocolate cake uses eggs as its primary binding agent. This results in a texture that’s somewhere between a baked custard and a brownie—luxuriously smooth, melt-in-your-mouth, and deeply satisfying. The absence of flour allows the chocolate to truly shine, making high-quality chocolate the star ingredient in this recipe.

This cake is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of pantry staples. Despite its sophisticated appearance, it comes together quickly and easily, making it an excellent choice for both special occasions and weeknight desserts. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party, holiday celebration, Valentine’s Day, or a gluten-free gathering, flourless chocolate cake always impresses.

Another reason this dessert is so beloved is its versatility. It can be served warm with a gooey center or chilled for a firmer, truffle-like texture. You can dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. For an extra luxurious touch, pair it with vanilla ice cream or raspberry coulis.

From a nutritional perspective, flourless chocolate cake is richer and more calorie-dense than traditional cakes, but it’s also more satisfying. A small slice goes a long way, making it perfect for mindful indulgence. Because it contains no flour, it’s a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities, provided all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

If you’re searching for the best flourless chocolate cake recipe, this one delivers a perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and texture. It’s proof that sometimes, fewer ingredients really do create the most unforgettable desserts.

Ingredients

• 200g (7 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa recommended)
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting the pan)
• Powdered sugar or fresh berries (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and dust lightly with cocoa powder. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter together using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals. Stir until smooth and glossy, then let cool slightly.
3. Add the sugar to the melted chocolate mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The batter should become thick and smooth.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Mix gently until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 23–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. The cake will sink slightly as it cools—this is normal.
9. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or garnish with berries before serving.