Introduction
Embrace the indulgence of a rich and decadent dessert that promises an unforgettable experience. Our Flourless Chocolate Cake with Toasted Hazelnuts and Brandied Cherries is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a nod to the timeless classics.
Tips for this recipe
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before combining.
- Quality of chocolate can significantly affect the final flavor, so opt for high-quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate.
- Toasting hazelnuts enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful texture to your cake.
- 1 750-ml bottle brandy
- 1 1/2 cups dried tart cherries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 10 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 1/4 cups (2 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, diced
- 10 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup plus 6 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 9 large egg whites
- 8 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups hazelnuts, toasted, coarsely chopped
- Rack
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls (3)
- 8-inch springform pan
- Pastry brush
- Microwave-safe container
- Digital scale
- Rubber spatula
Written by an expert baker who loves experimenting with classic recipes, this guide simplifies the process for you.
Why you will love this recipe
This Flourless Chocolate Cake is a masterpiece that marries rich chocolate flavors with a delicate balance of tart cherries and nuttiness from hazelnuts. The added twist of brandied cherries adds an unexpected burst of depth, making it a unique and unforgettable dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Adviced equipment
History of the recipe
The Flourless Chocolate Cake with Toasted Hazelnuts and Brandied Cherries has its roots in French patisserie, reflecting the country’s rich chocolate-making tradition. While flour is often omitted to enhance the cake’s density and richness, this recipe pays homage to traditional ingredients while adding a modern twist with brandied cherries – a luxurious nod to historical European desserts that incorporated brandy into their confections for an extra depth of flavor.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? Toasting hazelnuts is not just a culinary step but also a chemical reaction! When heated, the natural oils in hazelnuts begin to brown and intensify their flavor profile. Additionally, brandied cherries aren’t only for desserts; historically, brandy-infused fruits were used as a preservative method before refrigeration was commonplace. This Flourless Chocolate Cake embraces these traditional techniques to create an exquisite and flavorful dish that pays homage to the rich culinary history of cherished desserts.