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A triangular slice of chocolate cake is placed on a white plate. The cake is topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and two red cherries. The background includes a blurred white cake stand.
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5 from 2 votes

Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake (Torta Caprese)

Prep Time45 minutes
WORK TIME15 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 8 yields

Ingredients

  • 180 g 6.35oz Dark chocolate
  • 150 g Butter
  • 4 Large Eggs separated
  • 1¾ cups 180g Ground almonds
  • Pinch Salt
  • ¾ cup 150g Sugar, divided

Instructions

  • DIRECTIONS
    1. Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Line the bottom a 8-inch (20cm) with a springform pan and set aside.
    2. Place chopped chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a pot with simmering water (bain-marie) and melt the chocolate and butter. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
    3. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and 1/2 cup (100g) sugar, whisk until thick and pale.
    4. Pour the chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture and mix until smooth. Add ground almonds and mix until combined. Set aside.
    5. In a separate bowl, using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, whisk egg whites until foamy, gradually add 1/4 cup of sugar and whisk to stiff peaks. Gradually fold whipped egg whites into the chocolate-almond mixture.
    6. Pour the batter into prepared pan and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with few crumbs attached. Allow to cool completely before serving.
    7. Before serving dust with powdered sugar.
    8. Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream or seasonal fruits.
    FAQs

    What is the best type of chocolate to use for a flourless chocolate almond cake?

    For a rich and intense flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content.
    dark chocolate
    *use high quality dark chocolate

    How can I ensure my flourless chocolate almond cake is not too dry?

    Avoid overbaking. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Also, let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing it.

    Can I substitute the ground almonds with another nut or ingredient?

    Yes, you can use ground hazelnuts or walnuts for a different flavor. For a nut-free version, you can try using coconut flour, but the texture will vary.

    How do I properly separate egg yolks from egg whites?

    Use three bowls: one for the yolks, one for the whites, and one for cracking the eggs. This way, if you accidentally get yolk in the whites, you won't contaminate the whole batch. If you are nor confident enough about separating the eggs, try one of these tools.

    Why did my cake sink in the middle?

    This could be due to overmixing the batter, causing the egg whites to deflate. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter and avoid opening the oven door during baking.

    How do I melt the chocolate and butter without burning it?

    Use a double boiler (bain-marie) method by placing the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.

    Can I make this cake ahead of time?

    Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

    What is the best way to serve flourless chocolate almond cake?

    Serve the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar, and optionally with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries for an added touch.

    How do I store leftover Torta Caprese?

    tore the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

    Why are my egg whites not whipping to stiff peaks?

    meringue
    Ensure that the bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease or yolk. Use room temperature eggs for the best results, and gradually add sugar while whipping to help stabilize the egg whites.

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