Name: Small Flourless Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz (170g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter; 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/3 cup (28g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); 1 tsp espresso powder (optional)

Why You’ll Love Small Flourless Chocolate Cake Recipe

This cake is a chocolate dream come true. It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few pantry staples, yet it looks and tastes like something from a gourmet bakery. The texture is dense and truffle-like, and it pairs beautifully with whipped cream or fresh berries. Ideal for date nights, small gatherings, or when you’re simply craving a deep chocolate fix, this flourless cake is both luxurious and practical.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Large eggs
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Optional: vanilla extract, espresso powder

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 6-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar until fully combined.
Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs one at a time.
Sift in the cocoa powder and salt, and stir until the batter is smooth. Add optional vanilla extract or espresso powder if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This small flourless chocolate cake serves 4 to 6 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking time is around 20 to 25 minutes.

Variations

Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chili powder for a warm twist.
Mocha Flavor: Stir in 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds before baking.
Orange Zest: Add grated orange zest to the batter for a citrusy contrast.
Berry Bliss: Top with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or a drizzle of berry coulis.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven to restore the fudgy texture.

FAQs

What makes a flourless chocolate cake different from regular chocolate cake?

Flourless chocolate cake has no flour, resulting in a denser, fudgier texture compared to traditional cakes.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Yes, since it contains no flour, it’s naturally gluten-free—just be sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

Do I need to use a water bath?

No, this recipe doesn’t require a water bath, though some versions do. It bakes well as-is in a standard pan.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Use high-quality semisweet or bittersweet chocolate for the richest flavor.

Can I use a different pan size?

A 6-inch pan is ideal. You can use a 5-inch or 7-inch pan with adjusted baking time, but don’t use a large pan or the cake will be too thin.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The top should look set, and a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add toppings to this cake?

Yes, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh berries, or ganache all make excellent toppings.

Is this cake very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, but rich in chocolate flavor. You can adjust sweetness by choosing a different chocolate type.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use an 8 or 9-inch pan. Baking time may increase slightly.

Conclusion

This small flourless chocolate cake is a rich, satisfying dessert that delivers big flavor in a compact size. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself, this easy-to-make cake is sure to impress with its deep chocolate flavor and elegant simplicity.