Ina Garten Bittersweet Chocolate Cake

When it comes to showstopping desserts, Ina Garten’s Bittersweet Chocolate Cake is a must-try. With its dense, velvety texture and bold chocolate flavor, this cake is the definition of indulgence. It’s simple to make, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for special occasions or any time you want a luxurious treat.

What Is Ina Garten’s Bittersweet Chocolate Cake?

This is a flourless chocolate cake made with high-quality bittersweet chocolate, butter, eggs, and sugar. It’s baked gently and served with a dusting of cocoa powder or a dollop of whipped cream. The texture is somewhere between a mousse and a fudge brownie—intensely chocolaty, but smooth and light on the palate.

Other Ina Garten Dessert Recipes

• Ina Garten Coconut Cupcakes
• Ina Garten Deep Dish Apple Pie
• Ina Garten Apple Pie Bars
• Barefoot Contessa French Apple Tart

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Bittersweet Chocolate Cake

• Intensely chocolatey – For true chocolate lovers
• Elegant presentation – Beautiful in its simplicity
• Naturally gluten-free – Made without flour
• Make-ahead friendly – Improves with chilling
• Minimal ingredients – But maximum flavor
• Perfect for dinner parties – Looks and tastes impressive
• Serves a crowd – Rich enough for small slices

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Bittersweet Chocolate Cake

• 1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 pound high-quality bittersweet chocolate (60–70%), chopped
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 6 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (plus more for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• Optional: lightly sweetened whipped cream or crème fraîche for serving

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Bittersweet Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper and butter the paper for easy release.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Place the butter and chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water. Stir occasionally until smooth and melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, vanilla, salt, and cocoa powder. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Mix until smooth and fully blended.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove from the springform pan. Dust with cocoa powder and slice using a warm knife. Serve with whipped cream or berries if desired.

What to Serve With Bittersweet Chocolate Cake

• Fresh whipped cream or crème fraîche – Adds creaminess and balance
• Raspberries or strawberries – Bright contrast to rich chocolate
• Espresso or dark roast coffee – Enhances the chocolate flavor
• Vanilla bean ice cream – Classic pairing
• Toasted almonds or hazelnuts – Adds crunch and nutty depth
• Dark chocolate curls or shavings – For visual flair
• Red wine or port – Elegant dessert wine pairing

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use high-quality chocolate – It’s the star ingredient
• Don’t overbake – The center should be just set
• Cool fully before slicing – Helps firm up the cake
• Warm your knife for clean slices – Dip in hot water, then wipe
• Refrigerate overnight – Improves texture and flavor
• Serve at room temperature – Best texture and richness
• Dust cocoa powder right before serving – Keeps it fresh

Variations of the Recipe

• Add espresso powder to the batter – Deepens the chocolate flavor
• Stir in orange zest or almond extract – For a twist
• Top with ganache or glaze – For extra decadence
• Swirl in raspberry purée before baking – Elegant flavor layer
• Use a mix of dark and semisweet chocolate – To adjust the sweetness
• Make mini versions in ramekins – Perfect for individual servings
• Serve with salted caramel drizzle – For sweet-salty balance

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps for up to 5 days
• Bring to room temperature before serving – For best texture
• Freeze whole or sliced cake – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight – Then slice and serve
• Store whipped cream separately – Add just before serving
• Label and date before freezing – Helps track freshness
• Avoid plastic wrap directly on cake – Use parchment first, then wrap

How Do I Reuse Chocolate Cake?

• Crumble into parfaits or trifles – Layer with cream and fruit
• Serve with espresso shots – As a dessert pairing
• Use in ice cream sundaes – As a rich base
• Cut into cubes and dip in fondue – Chocolate lovers’ dream
• Turn into cake pops – Mix with frosting and coat in chocolate
• Blend into milkshakes – For an ultra-decadent treat
• Add chunks to brownie batter – Double chocolate upgrade

Nutritional Value (per slice, based on 10 servings)

• Calories: 460
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 90mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s bittersweet chocolate cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal for making ahead. Prepare and refrigerate the cake at least 4 hours in advance or overnight for best texture and flavor.

What type of chocolate is best for this cake?

Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate with 60–70% cacao for a rich, smooth, and balanced chocolate flavor.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Yes, it contains no flour and is naturally gluten-free—perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.

How do I get clean slices of chocolate cake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This keeps the slices neat and prevents sticking.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Bittersweet Chocolate Cake is a celebration of pure, intense chocolate.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a quiet night in, this cake delivers richness, elegance, and indulgence in every slice. With a short ingredient list and reliable results, it’s a go-to dessert that never fails to impress.

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