Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into a French patisserie with this irresistible Chocolate Almond Torte. Imagine a dessert so rich, so velvety, and so intensely chocolatey that it will make your taste buds dance with pure delight. This flourless wonder is not just a cake – it's a luxurious experience that proves sometimes the most extraordinary flavors come from the simplest ingredients.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it thoroughly and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Ensure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Add dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter to the bowl. Melt slowly, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Remove the chocolate mixture from heat and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and slightly frothy.
- Gradually fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring carefully to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Gently fold in ground almonds and salt, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan. The torte will continue to set as it cools.
- Once cooled, carefully remove from springform pan and dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder if desired.
- Slice and serve at room temperature. Optional: Garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream.
Tips
- Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the most intense flavor profile.
- Be patient when melting chocolate – low and slow is the key to preventing burning.
- When folding ingredients, use a gentle hand to maintain the torte's delicate texture.
- Don't overbake! The center should still be slightly soft when you remove it from the oven.
- Allow the torte to cool completely to achieve the perfect dense, fudgy consistency.
- For an elegant presentation, use a hot knife when slicing to get clean, smooth cuts.
- Store the torte at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
- For an extra touch of luxury, serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
