Home
Recipes
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts
Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe

Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe

Master this homemade flourless chocolate cake with its intensely rich flavor and impossibly fudgy texture. This best easy baking recipe uses high-quality chocolate and a simple water bath technique to create a restaurant-worthy dessert that's naturally gluten-free and guaranteed to impress.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Serves:
1 cake (10 slices)
An overhead shot of a dark, glossy Flourless Chocolate Cake on an elegant white cake stand, with a single slice cut to reveal the cake's incredibly moist, fudgy interior. The top surface displays a characteristic crackly crust scattered with a light dusting of cocoa powder and decorated with fresh raspberries. Soft natural lighting highlights the cake's velvety texture, while streams of molten chocolate cascade from the center when cut. A small pitcher of warm chocolate sauce sits nearby, alongside a vintage silver cake server and a delicate white china plate holding a perfect slice garnished with a mint sprig and a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">250g high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">125g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">5 large eggs, separated, at room temperature</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">150g granulated sugar, divided</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp pure vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp fine sea salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp cocoa powder, for dusting</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">23cm (9-inch) springform pan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large heatproof bowl</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Electric hand mixer or stand mixer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Larger baking dish (for water bath)</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) fan-forced. Thoroughly butter the inside of your springform pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper and butter the paper too. Wrap the outside of the pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil, ensuring it comes at least halfway up the sides to prevent water from seeping in during baking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water (don't let the bowl touch the water). Stir occasionally until completely melted and smooth. The gentle, indirect heat prevents the chocolate from seizing or burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, 100g of the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until pale and thickened. This creates an emulsion that helps bind the cake. Gradually fold this mixture into the melted chocolate, being careful not to deflate it.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the remaining 50g sugar, beating until soft peaks form. The egg whites should be glossy and hold their shape when the beater is lifted, but the tip should fold over slightly. These incorporated air bubbles are crucial for giving the flourless cake structure.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then carefully fold in the remaining whites with a large spatula using a cutting motion, followed by a scraping motion from the bottom of the bowl. Fold just until no white streaks remain - overmixing will deflate the egg whites and result in a dense cake.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish, then carefully pour hot water into the larger dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath (bain-marie) creates a gentle, moist heat that ensures your cake bakes evenly without drying out.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the cake has risen slightly and the center is just set but still has a slight wobble when gently shaken. A perfectly baked flourless chocolate cake should be set around the edges but remain slightly underdone in the center - it will continue cooking from residual heat and firm up as it cools.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Carefully remove the cake from the water bath and place on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely in the pan, about 1-2 hours. As it cools, the cake will settle slightly and develop its characteristic fudgy texture. Run a thin knife around the edge before releasing the springform.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to develop fully. When ready to serve, dust with cocoa powder. For the best flavor, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe?

This gluten-free cake requires high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), unsalted butter, eggs (separated), granulated sugar, vanilla extract, sea salt, and cocoa powder for dusting. The quality of chocolate significantly impacts the final taste and texture.

How to cook Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Flourless Chocolate Cake through a simple water bath technique. Melt chocolate and butter together, fold in whipped egg whites carefully, then bake in a springform pan set in a water bath at 160°C for 40-45 minutes until just set with a slight wobble. The water bath ensures even baking without drying out the edges.

Why does my flourless chocolate cake sink in the middle?

Some sinking is normal and creates the cake's fudgy centre. Excessive sinking usually happens from opening the oven door too early, overmixing the batter (deflating air bubbles), or removing the cake from the oven before it's set around the edges. The ideal cake has a slight depression.

Can I make a flourless chocolate cake in advance for a dinner party?

Absolutely! This dessert actually improves with time. Make it 1-2 days ahead and refrigerate, covered. The flavours deepen and the texture becomes more fudgy. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving and dust with fresh cocoa powder just before presenting.

What's the secret to achieving that perfect crackly top on a chocolate torte?

The characteristic crackly top comes from properly whipped egg whites and sugar forming a meringue-like layer that rises during baking then sets and cracks. Ensure your egg whites reach soft peaks, gradually add sugar, and don't overmix when folding into the chocolate mixture.

Want to try something else in ...

Gluten-Free Desserts

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An overhead shot captures a rustic wooden board where freshly baked gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are arranged in an inviting cluster, some whole and some broken to reveal pockets of melted chocolate. Shot in warm natural light that highlights the golden-brown edges and slightly crackled tops. Close-up details show the textural contrast between the crisp exterior and soft interior, while scattered chocolate chips and a light dusting of flaky sea salt add visual interest. A vintage blue ceramic plate holds a small stack of cookies beside a glass of milk, creating a homey, nostalgic scene that emphasizes the cookies' traditional appearance despite their gluten-free nature.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Perfectly crisp on the edges with soft, chewy centers, these gluten-free chocolate chip cookies deliver all the classic flavor and texture without the gluten.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
12 mins
Serves:
18 cookies
View recipe
An overhead shot of two golden-brown gluten-free baguettes resting on a rustic linen cloth alongside a third baguette cut diagonally to reveal its airy, open crumb structure. Soft natural light streams in from the side, highlighting the crackling crust's intricate patterns and slight sheen from the water misting. A wooden board beneath creates warm contrast against the bread's caramel tones, while scattered rice flour and a few grains of psyllium husk add textural interest to the composition. A butter knife and small ramekin of herbed butter sit nearby, suggesting immediate enjoyment of the freshly baked bread.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Gluten-Free Baguettes Recipe

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these artisan-style gluten-free baguettes deliver that distinctive chew and airy crumb of traditional French bread without the gluten.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
3 baguettes
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rustic gluten-free carrot cake with a generous layer of smooth cream cheese frosting swirled artistically on top. Natural light streams through to highlight the moist, speckled interior crumb revealed by a missing slice. Orange-hued cake layers studded with visible carrot shreds and chopped walnuts create beautiful texture contrast against the pure white frosting. Decorative carrot fronds and a light dusting of cinnamon frame the cake, which rests on a weathered wooden cake stand. Scattered walnut pieces and tiny carrot decorations around the base add dimension and reinforce the cake's natural ingredients.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Recipe

Moist, spiced carrot cake packed with nutty texture and crowned with tangy cream cheese frosting offers the perfect gluten-free indulgence for any occasion.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 cake (12 slices)
View recipe
A close-up shot captures a freshly baked gluten-free cinnamon roll pulled slightly apart to reveal its tender, spiraled interior glistening with cinnamon-brown sugar filling. In soft natural light, the roll's surface shows a delicate golden-brown color contrast against the white cream cheese frosting that drips enticingly down its sides. The background features a rustic wooden board where more rolls rest in a vintage ceramic baking dish, with cinnamon sticks and a small bowl of icing strategically placed nearby. Steam visibly rises from the warm rolls, emphasizing their freshly baked quality and promising the classic comfort of cinnamon rolls despite being gluten-free.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pillowy-soft, swirled cinnamon rolls with a warm spiced filling and creamy vanilla glaze that are completely gluten-free but taste indulgently authentic.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
12 rolls
View recipe
An overhead shot of golden-brown 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies arranged in a casual spiral pattern on a rustic wooden board, with a few cookies broken in half to reveal their crumbly interior texture. Soft natural lighting creates subtle shadows that highlight the characteristic fork marks pressed into each cookie's surface. In the background, a small jar of natural peanut butter sits with its lid partially off, while a few scattered whole peanuts add context and visual interest. The warm amber tones of the cookies contrast beautifully with the deep browns of the board, emphasizing their homemade, unpretentious appeal.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Incredibly simple yet decadently rich peanut butter cookies with a perfect crumbly-chewy texture and deep nutty flavor that melts in your mouth with each bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
12 mins
Serves:
15 cookies
View recipe
An overhead shot reveals a pristine arrangement of gluten-free lemon bars dusted with powdered sugar, their vibrant yellow filling contrasting beautifully against the golden brown crust. Soft natural light streams across the scene, highlighting the smooth, glossy surface of the lemon layer. A cross-section view displays the clear distinction between the substantial shortbread-like base and the silky, custard-like topping. Arranged on a rustic white ceramic platter garnished with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves, with a vintage silver serving knife nearby. Several bars are positioned at various angles, revealing their perfect layers and consistency, while flecks of lemon zest add visual texture against the bright yellow filling.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Gluten-Free Lemon Bars Recipe

Bright, zesty lemon curd sits atop a buttery, shortbread-like gluten-free crust, creating the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crumbly textures in every refreshing bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Serves:
16 bars
View recipe
A tiered serving platter showcases golden-brown coconut macaroons in soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window. The close-up reveals their perfectly toasted exterior and moist, tender interior with visible coconut strands. Some macaroons feature chocolate-dipped bottoms that glisten against the white porcelain plate, while others remain au naturel, highlighting their rustic, mounded shape. Scattered coconut flakes and a few whole macaroons halved to expose their chewy centers complete the scene, with fine details of the caramelized edges catching the light against a simple linen napkin.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Coconut Macaroons Recipe

Delicately crisp on the outside yet tender and chewy on the inside, these golden-brown coconut macaroons deliver an intensely tropical flavor with a sweet, caramelized finish.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
18 macaroons
View recipe
A close-up shot of golden-brown coconut flour cupcakes with a perfect dome top, captured in soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window. The cupcakes are arranged on a distressed white wooden cake stand, some topped with swirls of fluffy coconut cream frosting and others left plain to showcase their moist, speckled crumb. A cross-section shot reveals the delicate, slightly dense texture characteristic of coconut flour baking, with tiny flecks of vanilla bean visible throughout. Scattered coconut flakes and a few fresh berries add vibrant color contrast against the warm tones of the cupcakes, while a vintage tea towel and coconut shell prop in the background hint at the star ingredient.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Coconut Flour Cupcakes Recipe

Tender, grain-free cupcakes with delicate coconut flavor and a light, moist texture that makes for a perfect guilt-free indulgence.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Serves:
12 cupcakes
View recipe
An overhead shot of a square almond flour brownie on a vintage blue ceramic plate, with a clean cut revealing its fudgy interior. Soft natural light streams from the side, highlighting the crackly top and moist, dense texture beneath. In the background, scattered cacao nibs and whole almonds create visual context, while a small glass of milk sits slightly out of focus. The brownies exhibit a beautiful contrast between the shiny, paper-thin crackled surface and the rich, dark chocolate interior. A light dusting of cocoa powder adds depth to the composition, photographed on a rustic wooden board that enhances the homemade appeal.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

Almond Flour Brownies Recipe

Rich, fudgy brownies made with almond flour offer a decadent chocolate experience with a slightly nutty undertone and perfectly chewy texture.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Serves:
16 brownies
View recipe
An overhead shot of a golden-brown French Almond Cake dusted with powdered sugar, revealing its delicate crumb on a slice pulled slightly away from the whole. The cake sits on an antique porcelain cake stand with blue detailing, surrounded by scattered whole and sliced almonds. Soft natural window light highlights the cake's moist texture, while a silver cake server rests alongside, ready to cut the next piece. A small sprig of fresh lavender and a cup of espresso add Mediterranean charm to the scene, emphasizing the cake's French origins and perfect afternoon tea pairing.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-Free Desserts

French Almond Cake Recipe

A delicate, moist almond cake with a tender crumb and subtle fragrance that melts in your mouth with each buttery, nutty bite.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 cake (8 slices)
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Baker" }, "datePublished": "2024-04-25", "description": "Master this homemade flourless chocolate cake with its intensely rich flavor and impossibly fudgy texture. This best easy baking recipe uses high-quality chocolate and a simple water bath technique to create a restaurant-worthy dessert that's naturally gluten-free and guaranteed to impress.", "prepTime": "PT20M", "cookTime": "PT45M", "totalTime": "PT1H5M", "keywords": "flourless chocolate cake, gluten-free dessert, fudgy chocolate cake, dinner party dessert, chocolate torte", "recipeYield": "10", "recipeCategory": "Dessert", "recipeCuisine": "French", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "315 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "26 g", "proteinContent": "6 g", "fatContent": "22 g", "saturatedFatContent": "13 g", "cholesterolContent": "124 mg", "sodiumContent": "75 mg", "sugarContent": "22 g", "servingSize": "1 slice" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "250g high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped", "125g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing", "5 large eggs, separated, at room temperature", "150g granulated sugar, divided", "1 tsp pure vanilla extract", "1/4 tsp fine sea salt", "2 tbsp cocoa powder, for dusting" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare pan and preheat", "text": "Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F) fan-forced. Thoroughly butter the inside of your springform pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper and butter the paper too. Wrap the outside of the pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil, ensuring it comes at least halfway up the sides to prevent water from seeping in during baking." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Melt chocolate and butter", "text": "Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water (don't let the bowl touch the water). Stir occasionally until completely melted and smooth. The gentle, indirect heat prevents the chocolate from seizing or burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare egg yolk mixture", "text": "In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, 100g of the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until pale and thickened. This creates an emulsion that helps bind the cake. Gradually fold this mixture into the melted chocolate, being careful not to deflate it." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Beat egg whites", "text": "In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the remaining 50g sugar, beating until soft peaks form. The egg whites should be glossy and hold their shape when the beater is lifted, but the tip should fold over slightly. These incorporated air bubbles are crucial for giving the flourless cake structure." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Fold in egg whites", "text": "Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then carefully fold in the remaining whites with a large spatula using a cutting motion, followed by a scraping motion from the bottom of the bowl. Fold just until no white streaks remain - overmixing will deflate the egg whites and result in a dense cake." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare water bath", "text": "Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula. Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish, then carefully pour hot water into the larger dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath (bain-marie) creates a gentle, moist heat that ensures your cake bakes evenly without drying out." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Bake the cake", "text": "Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the cake has risen slightly and the center is just set but still has a slight wobble when gently shaken. A perfectly baked flourless chocolate cake should be set around the edges but remain slightly underdone in the center - it will continue cooking from residual heat and firm up as it cools." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cool the cake", "text": "Carefully remove the cake from the water bath and place on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely in the pan, about 1-2 hours. As it cools, the cake will settle slightly and develop its characteristic fudgy texture. Run a thin knife around the edge before releasing the springform." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Refrigerate and serve", "text": "Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to develop fully. When ready to serve, dust with cocoa powder. For the best flavor, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften slightly." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "173" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Sophia Martínez", "datePublished": "2024-04-18", "reviewBody": "Perfect balance of fudgy and light! I've tried many flourless cake recipes but this one truly stands out. The water bath technique made all the difference in achieving that perfect texture.", "name": "Perfectly Balanced Texture", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Akira Tanaka", "datePublished": "2024-04-15", "reviewBody": "Even better on day two! I made this for a dinner party and saved a slice for myself the next day. The flavors had deepened overnight and the texture was even more velvety. A true chocolate masterpiece!", "name": "Improves with Time", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Isabella Rossi", "datePublished": "2024-04-10", "reviewBody": "Absolute chocolate heaven, worth every calorie! The instructions were clear and despite being an intermediate recipe, I found it quite manageable. My guests were impressed with how professional it looked and tasted.", "name": "Chocolate Perfection", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Lars Nielsen", "datePublished": "2024-04-05", "reviewBody": "My guests begged for the recipe! This cake has converted me to flourless baking. The crackly top and fudgy center is a perfect combination. I served it with fresh raspberries which complemented the rich chocolate beautifully.", "name": "Dinner Party Star", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Priya Sharma", "datePublished": "2024-04-01", "reviewBody": "Restaurant quality from simple ingredients! I was nervous about the water bath technique but the detailed instructions made it foolproof. This will be my go-to dessert for special occasions from now on.", "name": "Restaurant Quality at Home", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "This gluten-free cake requires high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa), unsalted butter, eggs (separated), granulated sugar, vanilla extract, sea salt, and cocoa powder for dusting. The quality of chocolate significantly impacts the final taste and texture." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to cook Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to cook Flourless Chocolate Cake through a simple water bath technique. Melt chocolate and butter together, fold in whipped egg whites carefully, then bake in a springform pan set in a water bath at 160°C for 40-45 minutes until just set with a slight wobble. The water bath ensures even baking without drying out the edges." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Why does my flourless chocolate cake sink in the middle?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Some sinking is normal and creates the cake's fudgy centre. Excessive sinking usually happens from opening the oven door too early, overmixing the batter (deflating air bubbles), or removing the cake from the oven before it's set around the edges. The ideal cake has a slight depression." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I make a flourless chocolate cake in advance for a dinner party?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely! This dessert actually improves with time. Make it 1-2 days ahead and refrigerate, covered. The flavours deepen and the texture becomes more fudgy. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving and dust with fresh cocoa powder just before presenting." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the secret to achieving that perfect crackly top on a chocolate torte?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The characteristic crackly top comes from properly whipped egg whites and sugar forming a meringue-like layer that rises during baking then sets and cracks. Ensure your egg whites reach soft peaks, gradually add sugar, and don't overmix when folding into the chocolate mixture." } } ] }