Flourless Chocolate Cake Brownies

Name: Flourless Chocolate Cake Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup (6 oz) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Indulgent Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore baking these flourless chocolate cake brownies whenever I crave something rich and decadent. The combination of dark chocolate and a hint of sweetness creates a delightful treat that melts in your mouth. Plus, the absence of flour makes them a fantastic option for those following a gluten-free diet. With just a handful of ingredients, these brownies are both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, perfect for any occasion or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:14:29.429Z

When I first set out to create these flourless chocolate cake brownies, I was searching for the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. After several trials, I learned that using high-quality chocolate truly elevates the flavors. The richness of dark chocolate paired with the lightness from whisked eggs results in a dessert that’s both fudgy and airy.

Another tip I picked up along the way is to let the brownies cool completely before slicing. This allows them to firm up and makes cutting them into perfect squares a breeze. Trust me, the wait is well worth it for that ideal texture!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies all cravings
Fudgy texture with a hint of lightness
Gluten-free and perfect for a variety of diets
Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The essence of these flourless chocolate brownies lies in their high-quality dark chocolate. Using a chocolate with at least 70% cocoa will yield a richer flavor and contribute to the fudgy texture. The chocolate's fat content, combined with butter, helps create a luxurious mouthfeel. If you're aiming for a less intense flavor, you can opt for semi-sweet chocolate, but be mindful that it may alter the sweetness of the overall dish.

Butter plays a crucial role, not only for flavor but also for moisture. Replacing the butter with coconut oil can make these brownies dairy-free while still producing a rich texture. Just remember that coconut oil has a distinct taste so opt for refined varieties if you want to keep the chocolate flavor forward.

Baking Tips for Success

When melting the chocolate and butter, it's important to do so over low heat to avoid burning. Stirring frequently helps maintain an even temperature, ensuring the mixture becomes glossy without any signs of separation. If you accidentally overheat it, especially on higher heat, the chocolate might seize or become grainy. In such cases, you can try adding a small amount of cream to smooth it out.

Pay attention to baking time and visual cues. These brownies are done when the edges look set, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so it’s better to check a minute or two earlier than the recommended time.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These brownies store beautifully. Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their quality for about three months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Serving these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience. You can also consider drizzling them with caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for an added flavor contrast that enhances the chocolatey richness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect flourless chocolate cake brownies.

Ingredients

1 cup (6 oz) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious flourless chocolate cake brownies.

Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chopped dark chocolate and butter together, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring continuously.

Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder and salt into the chocolate mixture. Gently fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan. Bake in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, slice into squares and enjoy!

For the best flavor, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. This enhances the chocolate taste without making the brownies taste like coffee.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too cakey, it may be due to overmixing after incorporating the dry ingredients. The key to the perfect fudgy texture is to mix until just combined. Additionally, ensure that you're not adding too much cocoa powder, as that can also affect the moisture level. Stick to the specified amount for optimal results.

Another common issue is uneven baking. Make sure to preheat your oven thoroughly; an underheated oven can lead to unevenly cooked brownies. If your oven tends to run hot or cold, consider using an oven thermometer to confirm temperatures, ensuring your brownie batter bakes evenly.

Variations to Explore

For a nutty flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. This not only adds texture but also complements the rich chocolate taste. You can also experiment by adding chocolate chips for extra chocolate goodness—just be sure to choose chunks that match your sweetness preference.

If you're looking to create a little twist on the classic version, try adding a touch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. Simply dissolve 1 teaspoon in your melted chocolate mixture. This small addition can deepen the chocolate taste and create a more complex flavor profile in your brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if you prefer.