Description
Chocolate soufflé is a light, airy dessert made with rich chocolate, whipped egg whites, and a touch of coffee for depth. Perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or as a homemade treat. Easily made gluten-free, dairy-free, or lower-sugar.
Ingredients
For the Soufflé:
– 2 tbsp softened unsalted butter (substitute dairy-free butter if needed)
– ⅓ cup sugar, divided
– ¼ cup heavy cream (substitute coconut cream for dairy-free diets)
– ⅓ cup dark chocolate (70%, chopped)
– ⅓ cup bittersweet chocolate (chopped)
– ½ cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
– ½ cup brewed coffee, room temperature (substitute hot water if preferred)
– 1½ tsp vanilla extract
– 8 large egg whites
– ½ cup sugar
– ½ tsp kosher salt
For Optional Garnish:
– Powdered sugar
– Cocoa powder
– Ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush eight 4-ounce soufflé ramekins with softened butter, ensuring all sides are coated. Add sugar to each ramekin, swirling to coat evenly, then return excess sugar to the bowl. Place ramekins on a baking sheet.
- In a double boiler, combine heavy cream, dark chocolate, and bittersweet chocolate. Stir until melted and glossy. Turn off heat and stir in cocoa powder, coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth. Let sit above the double boiler while preparing the egg whites.
- In a stand mixer, beat egg whites on high speed for 30 seconds until foamy. Gradually add sugar and salt in a thin stream, continuing to beat until glossy and soft peaks form.
- Transfer the chocolate mixture to a large mixing bowl. Fold in ¼ of the whipped egg whites until fully combined. Gently fold in half the remaining egg whites, then the rest, ensuring no white streaks remain.
- Spoon the mixture into prepared ramekins, spreading evenly to the top.
- Bake for 11–13 minutes (11 for creamier centers, 13 for firmer tops). Serve immediately, garnished with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or ice cream if desired.
Notes
– Use high-quality chocolate: This ensures maximum richness and flavor. Substitute dairy-free chocolate for vegan diets.
– Prevent collapse: Avoid opening the oven door while baking and serve immediately after removing from the oven. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, though soufflés will deflate.
– Customizations: Add cinnamon, chili powder, or citrus zest for variety. Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or fresh berries for added flair.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Chocolate Treats
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired / Classic Desserts
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 soufflé
- Calories: ~250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg