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Perfect Italian Torta Caprese Recipe Easy Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake

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A rich, dense, and utterly addictive Italian flourless chocolate almond cake with a perfect balance of bittersweet chocolate and subtle nuttiness of almonds. This cake is moist, fudgy, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 7 oz (200g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
  • 5.3 oz (150g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs, room temperature, separated
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) almond flour / finely ground blanched almonds
  • 1 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch (20cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the chocolate and butter together using a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir gently until smooth, about 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
  3. Separate the eggs, placing yolks in one bowl and whites in another, ensuring no yolk gets into the whites.
  4. Whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks using an electric mixer, about 3-5 minutes. Optionally add a pinch of salt or cream of tartar to stabilize.
  5. Beat the egg yolks with sugar until pale and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
  6. Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the yolks using a spatula. Add almond extract if using.
  7. Fold in the almond flour just until combined.
  8. Carefully fold in the whipped egg whites in three parts, using a gentle under-and-over motion to keep the batter airy.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Tap the pan lightly to release large air bubbles.
  10. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the cake has a thin crust but is moist inside. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  11. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then release the springform and transfer to a wire rack.
  12. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

The cake will sink slightly in the center—that’s normal and part of its charm. Do not overbake to avoid dryness. Folding the egg whites gently is crucial for a light texture. Use good quality dark chocolate for best flavor. The cake can be served slightly warm or at room temperature and pairs well with espresso or red wine. Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze wrapped tightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Torta Caprese, flourless chocolate cake, almond cake, Italian dessert, gluten-free cake, chocolate almond cake, easy chocolate cake