Chocolate Torte

Table of Contents

1. Chocolate Torte Ingredients
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make a Flourless Chocolate Torte
4. Chocolate Torte Troubleshooting Tips
5. How to Easily Cut a Chocolate Torte
6. How to Serve This Easy Chocolate Torte
7. When to Serve Flourless Chocolate Torte
8. Storing This Chocolate Torte Recipe
9. Why You'll Love This Chocolate Torte
10. Frequently Asked Questions
11. More Recipes You'll Love
12. JUMP TO RECIPE
13. Even More Recipes You'll Love

This decadent and rich chocolate torte is a chocolate lover’s dream. A dense layer of flourless chocolate cake is topped with a silky smooth made-from-scratch chocolate ganache for this five-star recipe.

Chocolate Torte Ingredients

This recipe, with its blend of simple ingredients, promises to transform into an extraordinary dessert that everyone will love.

You only need a handful of ingredients, a cake pan, and a large bowl to create this great dessert, so let’s get started.

You’ll need:

Chocolate Torte Batter

• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon table salt
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 extra-large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips

Substitutions and Additions

CHOCOLATE CHIPS: For a more intense chocolate flavor, substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or unsweetened chocolate in the flourless torte batter.

You could use white chocolate chips in the ganache as well.

NUTS: For a flavor twist, mix in half a cup of chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts into the batter.

FRUIT: You could also add half a cup of dried fruit such as raspberries or cranberries.

BROWN SUGAR: Replace the white sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.

ESPRESSO: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate’s depth and richness.

COCOA POWDER: Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a smoother, less acidic chocolate flavor.

SPICE: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or chili powder for a spicy kick.

EXTRACT: Use almond extract in place of vanilla extract.

LIQUOR: If adults will be enjoying this flourless cake, add a splash or bourbon or rum to the batter for a delicious addition.

How to Make a Flourless Chocolate Torte

For the Chocolate Torte Recipe

STEP ONE: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with a parchment paper circle.

Spray generously with nonstick cooking spray on the bottom of the pan and edges of the pan. Set your prepared pan aside.

STEP TWO: Add the chocolate chips and butter to a medium-sized heatproof bowl.

Heat at full power in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until smooth.

Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate and butter using a double boiler. Allow the chocolate mixture to cool.

STEP THREE: Whisk together the granulated sugar, salt, and cocoa powder in a separate medium-sized mixing bowl. 

STEP FOUR: Add the eggs, one at a time to the sugar mixture. You can use a hand whisk or an electric mixer on low speed.

Continue mixing until completely incorporated.

STEP FIVE: Add the vanilla extract.

STEP SIX: Gently fold in the chocolate mixture.

STEP SEVEN: Pour the torte batter into the prepared springform pan.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is jiggly.

Allow the chocolate torte to cool completely before topping it with the ganache.

For the Chocolate Torte Ganache

STEP ONE: Add the heavy cream to a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one minute and 15 seconds in the microwave or until bubbling hot.

STEP TWO: Add the chocolate chips to a small heat-safe bowl.

STEP THREE: Carefully pour the hot heavy cream over the chocolate chips.

Allow the cream and chocolate to sit for two to three minutes before stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

STEP FOUR: Use an offset spatula to spread the ganache over the top of the torte. Let the ganache cool completely and set before slicing and serving. 

Chocolate Torte Troubleshooting Tips

My chocolate is burning or seizing.

Solution: Always melt chocolate slowly, either in a double boiler or using short intervals in the microwave, stirring frequently. If using a microwave, reduce power to 50% and heat in 20-30 second bursts.

My torte is too dense or dry.

Solution: Overbaking or incorrect egg size can lead to a dry or overly dense torte. Ensure you use the right size eggs (extra-large as specified) and avoid overbaking. The center should be slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven.

My torte is cracking.

Solution: Cracking can happen due to high oven temperature or overbaking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature. If the torte cracks, don’t worry, as the ganache will cover it.

My ganache is not smooth.

Solution: Make sure the cream is hot enough to melt the chocolate chips completely. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring. If lumps persist, gently heat the mixture over a double boiler while stirring.

My torte is sticking to the pan.

Solution: Line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper and grease it well. Allow the torte to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan.

My torte is sinking in the middle.

Solution: A slight dip is normal, but a significant sink can be due to underbaking or a sudden temperature change. Make sure to bake the torte until just set and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar.

My ganache is too thick or too thin.

Solution: If too thin, add more melted chocolate. If too thick, gently warm additional cream and whisk it in.

How to Easily Cut a Chocolate Torte

Slicing a flourless chocolate torte recipe, especially one with a rich and dense texture, requires a bit of technique to ensure clean and beautiful slices on your serving plate.

Here are some tips to help you slice the torte easily:

1. Chill the Torte: If your flourless chocolate cake is at room temperature, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing. A firmer torte is easier to cut cleanly.
2. Use a Hot Knife: A warm knife cuts through the chocolate torte more smoothly. Run a sharp, thin-bladed knife under hot water, then wipe it dry before each cut. The heat helps the knife glide through the torte, reducing the chances of the cake sticking to the blade.
3. Clean Between Slices: After each cut, clean the knife with a warm, wet cloth or rinse under hot water and dry. This removes any clinging crumbs or chocolate, ensuring each slice is as clean as the first.
4. Gentle Sawing Motion: Use a gentle sawing motion instead of pressing down hard. This is particularly useful if your torte has a ganache topping, as it prevents the ganache from cracking or being squished.
5. Let it Sit at Room Temperature: If the torte is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for ten to 15 minutes before slicing. This makes the texture slightly softer, allowing for easier cutting without losing firmness.
6. Mark Before Cutting: Gently score the top of this rich cake where you plan to cut. This acts as a guide and helps in achieving even slices.
7. Slice Size: For rich desserts like a chocolate torte, smaller slices are often more appropriate. Not only does this make serving easier, but it also suits the rich nature of the dessert.
8. Dipping Knife in Hot Water: If you don’t have a way to keep the knife hot between slices, simply dip it in a jug of hot water, wipe it dry, and then make a slice. Repeat for each cut.
9. Let the Knife Do the Work: Don’t apply too much pressure; let the heat and sharpness of the knife work through the torte.

How to Serve This Easy Chocolate Torte

With Fresh Whipped Cream and Berries: The perfect splash of color and also a refreshing contrast to the dense, chocolatey richness of the torte. The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness, balancing each bite.

Coffee or Espresso Pairing: Serve a slice of this torte with a steaming cup of strong coffee, espresso, or vanilla latte. The bold, robust flavors of the coffee complement the deep chocolate notes, enhancing the overall taste experience and offering a delightful end to a meal.

Dessert Wine Accompaniment: Pair the chocolate torte with a sweet dessert wine, such as a Port or a late-harvest Riesling. The wine’s sweetness and body are a perfect match for the rich and intense flavors of the chocolate, creating a harmonious blend of taste.

As Part of a Deconstructed Dessert: Use a small slice or cube of the torte as a base for a deconstructed dessert. Top it with ice cream, drizzles of caramel or chocolate sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt or toasted nuts.

When to Serve Flourless Chocolate Torte

The rich, deep flavors of this torte offer versatility in serving options, whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to a dinner party or seeking to impress in a more casual setting.

Intimate Dinner Parties: Elevate the end of a cozy dinner party with this luxurious torte. Its sophisticated flavor is perfect for impressing guests and providing a memorable conclusion to a fine meal.

Celebratory Events: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any milestone, the chocolate torte brings a touch of indulgence, making it feel extra special.

Holiday Gatherings: Serve this torte during holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter. Its rich taste and elegant appearance make it a festive and fitting choice for holiday feasts.

Afternoon Tea or Coffee: Serve this torte as a luxurious treat during afternoon tea or a coffee break. It pairs wonderfully with hot beverages, offering a delightful respite in the day.

Culinary Gift: This torte makes an excellent present. Surprise a friend, family member, or neighbor with a homemade dessert to share the joy of gourmet baking.

Storing This Chocolate Torte Recipe

Make Ahead:

This flourless chocolate torte can be made a day ahead of the event.

Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the springform pan. Store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

Avoid refrigerating the torte before adding the ganache, as refrigeration can change the texture of the cake, making it denser.

In the Fridge:

Once the ganache is set, the torte recipe can be stored in the refrigerator.

Cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

It will keep well for up to five days. The flavors often deepen and meld beautifully over time.

In the Freezer:

For longer storage, you can freeze the torte. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best to freeze it without the ganache topping.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to one to two months.

When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bring it to room temperature before adding the ganache topping.

Reheating:

Generally, this type of torte is enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled, so reheating is not typically necessary.

If you do need to warm it, do so very gently in the microwave in short bursts, checking frequently to ensure it doesn’t overheat and change texture.

Alternatively, let it sit at room temperature for a while to naturally come up to a more palatable temperature.

A Note About the Ganache Topping:

If you’ve already added the ganache, and you’re refrigerating or freezing the torte, note that the ganache might lose some of its glossy sheen. It will still taste delicious, but the appearance might be slightly different.

For best presentation, add the ganache after thawing the torte, if it was frozen.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Torte

This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and culinary delight. Here are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Rich Chocolate Flavor: The use of both chocolate chips and cocoa powder creates a deep, intense flavor that’s irresistible to any chocolate lover.

Elegant Presentation: With its smooth ganache topping and sophisticated appearance, this torte is sure to impress guests and elevate any dining table.

Versatile Serving Options: Whether served with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar, this torte can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion.

No Flour Needed: Being flourless, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising on taste or texture.

Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Outcome: The recipe uses basic ingredients that are easy to find but result in a dessert that tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.

Perfect for Special Occasions: Its luxurious taste and appearance make it ideal for celebrations, holidays, or as a special treat for loved ones.

Texture Contrast: The contrast between the dense, fudgy interior and the silky, smooth ganache creates a delightful textural experience with every bite.

Make-Ahead Convenience: This torte can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining and reducing last-minute stress.

Customizable: It’s easy to add your own twist to the recipe, be it through the addition of nuts, flavor extracts, or different types of toppings.

Indulgent but Not Overwhelming: Despite its richness, the torte is balanced in sweetness, making it indulgent without being overly heavy.

Pairs Well with Beverages: Whether it’s coffee, dessert wines, or iced tea, this torte pairs beautifully with a range of beverages, enhancing both the drink and the dessert.

Crowd-Pleaser: Its universal appeal makes it a hit among a wide variety of tastes, pleasing both adults and children alike.

Joy of Baking: The process of creating this torte, from melting chocolate to spreading ganache, is a delightful experience for any baker.

Every delicious bite of this chocolate torte is sure to please. With an irresistible layer of flourless chocolate cake and a luxurious, smooth homemade ganache, it’s the best dessert to share with others.

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