Chocolate Torte – Rich, Decadent, and Moist

Chocolate Torte is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. Dense, moist, and intensely chocolaty, this elegant cake is perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or indulgent celebrations. Unlike traditional layered cakes, a torte is rich enough to satisfy any chocolate craving without being overly sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Dense, fudgy, and intensely chocolatey
• Simple ingredients with a luxurious result
• Elegant dessert for any occasion
• Can be made ahead and stored
• Pork-free and alcohol-free

Ingredients

For the Torte

• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the Ganache

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Optional Toppings

• Fresh raspberries or strawberries
• Cocoa powder for dusting
• Chopped toasted nuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt 8 ounces of chocolate and ½ cup butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup granulated sugar.
4. Add egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
6. Gently fold in ¼ cup flour until combined.
7. In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
8. Fold egg whites into the chocolate mixture gently to retain air.
9. Pour batter into prepared springform pan and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
11. Cool torte in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove sides of springform pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. For ganache, heat cream until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
13. Pour ganache over cooled torte, spreading evenly.
14. Garnish with fresh berries, dust with cocoa powder, or sprinkle chopped nuts.
15. Chill slightly before slicing to set ganache for clean cuts.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor
• Do not overbake; torte should remain moist and fudgy
• Fold egg whites gently to maintain light texture
• Add espresso powder to chocolate mixture for enhanced depth
• Can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store torte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
• Slice and wrap leftover portions individually for freezer storage up to 2 months
• Reheat slightly at room temperature before serving

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Pair with fresh berries for contrast
• Drizzle with caramel or raspberry sauce for extra flair
• Enjoy with coffee or hot chocolate for indulgence

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this torte ahead of time?

Yes, it can be baked a day in advance and refrigerated. Ganache can also be poured in advance.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, but adjust sugar slightly to balance bitterness.

How do I achieve a smooth ganache?

Heat cream until just simmering and pour over chocolate. Let rest 1–2 minutes before stirring slowly until glossy.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the ¼ cup flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.

You Might Also Like

• Chocolate Mug Cake – Quick, single-serving indulgence.
• Gooey Brownie Pie – Dense, fudgy, and rich.
• No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies – Easy and chocolatey.
• Empire Cookies – Sweet, buttery, and decadent.

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