Decadent Chocolate Soufflé
What Started it all:
Chocolate soufllêlê
Indulge in this rich and airy chocolate soufflé, a classic French dessert that's sure to impress. This recipe is perfectly portioned to serve 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the ramekins
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus more for coating the ramekins
- 4 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
- 3 large egg yolks
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and coat the insides with granulated sugar, tapping out any excess. This helps the soufflés rise evenly.
- In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (or using a double boiler), melt the chocolate and 4 tablespoons of butter together. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and thick. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg yolks, stirring constantly until well combined. Set aside.
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and continue to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold a third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining egg whites in two batches, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Spoon the soufflé mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them almost to the top. Run your thumb around the inside edge of each ramekin to create a small indentation; this helps the soufflés rise evenly.
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the soufflés have risen and are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately.
Enjoy these delightful chocolate soufflés warm, straight from the oven. Their light, airy texture and rich chocolate flavor make them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Bon appétit!