Description
Torta Caprese is a classic Italian flourless chocolate cake made with rich dark chocolate, butter, and finely ground almonds. This naturally gluten-free dessert features a crisp exterior and a moist, fudgy center, making it an elegant and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 7 oz (200 g) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1½ cups finely ground almonds (almond flour)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter together until smooth, either over a double boiler or in short intervals in the microwave. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Beat Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick, which helps create a light texture in the cake.
- Combine Chocolate Mix and Vanilla: Stir the melted chocolate and butter mixture along with the vanilla extract into the egg yolk mixture until thoroughly combined.
- Add Almond Flour and Salt: Fold in the finely ground almonds and salt to the wet mixture, ensuring everything is well mixed into a uniform batter.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form, which will help give the cake its airy texture.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate batter in three additions. Be careful not to deflate the mixture to maintain its light and fluffy character.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface for baking.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should remain slightly soft, indicating the perfect fudgy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, carefully remove from the pan, dust with powdered sugar, and serve. Optionally, accompany with whipped cream or fresh berries for added indulgence.
Notes
- The cake center should remain slightly moist; avoid overbaking to preserve its fudgy texture.
- The cake firms up as it cools, making it easier to slice.
- Serve with whipped cream or fresh berries for complementary flavors and presentation.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert · Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
