Ina Garten’s chocolate flourless cake is a rich, dense, and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. With a deep, intense chocolate flavor and a silky, fudgy texture, this cake is naturally gluten-free and requires just a few simple ingredients. Whether served at a dinner party or as an everyday treat, this elegant dessert is sure to impress.

What Is Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake?

Ina Garten’s chocolate flourless cake is a decadent dessert made without flour, relying on eggs, butter, sugar, and chocolate to create a smooth, fudgy consistency. The cake has a slightly crisp top with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior, making it a luxurious alternative to traditional chocolate cake.

Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake recipe — Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Naturally gluten-free – Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Rich and chocolatey – Made with high-quality chocolate for deep flavor.
Simple yet elegant – Requires just a few ingredients but delivers a gourmet dessert.
Versatile toppings – Pairs well with whipped cream, berries, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Perfect for special occasions – A sophisticated dessert that’s easy to make but looks impressive.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
1 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for extra richness)
Powdered sugar or cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Preheat the oven – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
Melt chocolate and butter – In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and butter together over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Whisk eggs and sugar – In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and slightly thickened.
Combine wet ingredients – Stir the vanilla extract and salt into the melted chocolate mixture.
Incorporate dry ingredients – Gently fold in the cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate depth.
Mix the batter – Slowly fold the egg mixture into the chocolate until fully combined. Avoid overmixing.
Bake the cake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly wobbly.
Cool before serving – Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before removing.
Dust and serve – Sprinkle with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before serving.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Pair with fresh berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast.
Serve with whipped cream – Light, airy whipped cream balances the richness.
Drizzle with chocolate ganache – An extra layer of melted chocolate makes it even more indulgent.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream – The cold, creamy texture complements the fudgy cake.
Garnish with toasted nuts – Chopped almonds or hazelnuts add a crunchy texture.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Use high-quality chocolate – The better the chocolate, the richer the cake will taste.
Let the chocolate cool slightly – Prevents scrambling the eggs when mixing.
Do not overbake – The center should still be slightly soft for a fudgy texture.
Use a springform pan – Makes it easier to remove the cake without damaging it.
Allow time to cool – The cake sets as it cools, so don’t cut into it too soon.
Sift cocoa powder before adding – Ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Add espresso powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
Infuse with liqueur – A splash of Grand Marnier or Kahlua adds depth.
Use white chocolate – Swap bittersweet chocolate for a white chocolate version.
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a unique twist.
Top with salted caramel – A drizzle of caramel and sea salt enhances the sweetness.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Refrigerate in an airtight container – Store for up to 4 days.
Serve at room temperature – Let it sit for 20 minutes before serving.
Freeze for longer storage – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw before serving – Let it defrost overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake

Enjoy at room temperature – No need to reheat, as it tastes best slightly chilled.
Warm in the microwave – Heat for 10-15 seconds for a softer texture.
Reheat in the oven – Warm at 300°F for 5 minutes to refresh its flavor.

FAQs

Why is my chocolate flourless cake too dry?

A chocolate flourless cake can turn out dry if it’s overbaked. The cake should still have a slightly wobbly center when removed from the oven, as it will continue to set while cooling. Using high-quality chocolate and butter also ensures a moist, rich texture.

Can I make a chocolate flourless cake ahead of time?

Yes, chocolate flourless cake can be made a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I know when a flourless chocolate cake is done baking?

The cake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Overbaking will result in a dense, dry cake.

Can I freeze the chocolate flourless cake?

Yes, chocolate flourless cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s chocolate flourless cake is an easy yet sophisticated dessert that’s incredibly rich, smooth, and satisfying.

Try this simple, elegant recipe and enjoy a restaurant-quality dessert at home!