16 May 2025
Cook time 18 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
4 eggs
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp dry cocoa powder
1 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup dark chocolate
1 tbsp butter
Indulge your taste buds with a classic French dessert - the Chocolate Soufflé. This light and airy treat, made with rich dark chocolate and a hint of cocoa, is sure to impress both family and guests alike with its delicate texture and intense flavor. Follow these steps to create a perfectly risen soufflé that will melt in your mouth.
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Molds:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butter four individual soufflé ramekins (or an appropriately sized soufflé dish). Sprinkle a bit of sugar on the buttered sides to help the soufflé rise evenly.
2. Prepare Chocolate Base:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often, until smooth and fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Separate the Eggs:
- Carefully separate the egg yolks from the egg whites, placing the yolks in a small bowl and the whites in a large, clean mixing bowl.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate small bowl, sift together the cocoa powder and flour. Set aside.
5. Mix Egg Yolks and Chocolate:
- In the cooled chocolate mixture, whisk in the egg yolks one at a time until smooth and fully incorporated.
6. Whip Egg Whites:
- Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. This will help the soufflé rise properly.
7. Combine Mixtures:
- Gently fold the sifted cocoa powder and flour mixture into the chocolate-yolk mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold a third of the egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it.
- Carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no white streaks remain. Be gentle to preserve the airiness of the mixture.
8. Fill and Bake:
- Spoon the soufflé mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them almost to the top. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Run a clean finger or thumb around the inside edge of each ramekin; this helps the soufflé rise evenly.
9. Bake:
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until the soufflés have risen and the tops are set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Avoid opening the oven door during baking to prevent them from collapsing.
10. Serve Immediately:
- Remove from the oven and serve the soufflés immediately. They are best enjoyed right out of the oven for the perfect airy texture.
Tips:
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before beginning; this helps create a more stable soufflé mixture.
- Melt the chocolate gently to avoid burning, using a double boiler if possible.
- Grease and sugar your ramekins well to help the soufflé rise evenly and prevent sticking.
- Beat the egg whites to stiff peaks for the best volume.
- When folding in the egg whites, do so gently to avoid deflating the mixture.
With careful preparation and attention to detail, you'll achieve a beautifully risen, decadent Chocolate Soufflé that is sure to impress. Serve it immediately for the best experience, as soufflés are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, bursting with their airy, chocolatey goodness. Bon appétit!