Chocolate Soufflé

Chocolate Soufflé is a decadent dessert that combines rich dark chocolate with a light, airy texture. Despite its elegant appearance, this soufflé is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and sophistication.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon melted butter, or as needed

• 2 tablespoons white sugar

• 2 ounces 70% dark chocolate, broken into pieces

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 4½ tablespoons cold milk

• 1 pinch salt

• 1 pinch cayenne pepper

• 1 large egg yolk

• 2 large egg whites

• 1 pinch cream of tartar

• 1 tablespoon white sugar, divided

Directions

1. Prepare Ramekins: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the bottom and sides of two 5-ounce ramekins lightly with melted butter. Add 1 tablespoon white sugar to each ramekin; rotate until sugar coats all surfaces, then tip to pour off extra sugar.

2. Melt Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon butter in a heatproof bowl. Melt over simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.

3. Make Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the cold milk, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat.

4. Combine Mixtures: Whisk the egg yolk into the chocolate mixture. Gradually whisk in the milk mixture until smooth.

5. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1 tablespoon white sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

6. Fold Mixtures: Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined.

7. Fill Ramekins: Divide the soufflé mixture evenly between the prepared ramekins. Smooth the tops with a spatula and run your thumb around the inside edge to create a small groove.

8. Bake: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the soufflés have risen and the tops are set.

9. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 394 kcal

• Total Fat: 21g (27% DV)

  • Saturated Fat: 12g (61% DV)

• Cholesterol: 249mg (83% DV)

• Sodium: 190mg (8% DV)

• Total Carbohydrates: 42g (15% DV)

  • Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% DV)

  • Total Sugars: 36g

• Protein: 8g (16% DV)

• Vitamin C: 1mg (2% DV)

• Calcium: 67mg (5% DV)

• Iron: 1mg (4% DV)

• Potassium: 134mg (3% DV)
  
  

Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.