Caprese Cake

Caprese Cake, also known as Torta Caprese, is a rich and indulgent flourless chocolate cake that hails from the Isle of Capri. This Italian dessert is a blend of dark chocolate and almonds, creating a moist and soft center with a thin, crispy crust. It’s not only a delicious treat but also one of the earliest gluten-free cakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gluten-Free Delight: This cake is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: With a base of dark chocolate, this cake has a deep, intense cocoa flavor, enhanced by the almond flour.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few ingredients, it’s easy to prepare yet feels luxurious.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 125g (4.4 oz) dark chocolate (50-70% cocoa)
• 185g (6.5 oz) whole blanched almonds (or almond flour)
• 125g (~1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3 medium eggs, at room temperature
• 125g (7 tablespoons) granulated sugar
• Powdered sugar for decoration

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler, melt the butter and chocolate together, then set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Eggs: Separate the yolks and whites. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and set them aside.
3. Mix the Yolks and Sugar: Beat the egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy.
4. Add Almonds: Gradually incorporate almond flour into the yolk mixture, then add the melted chocolate and stir well.
5. Fold in the Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mixture using a wooden spoon.
6. Bake: Grease and flour a 20 cm (8-inch) springform pan. Pour in the batter and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 30-35 minutes until moist inside.
7. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30-40 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Decorate: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Replace almond flour with an equal amount of rice flour for a nut-free alternative.
• Flavor Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Slice and freeze individual pieces of cake. Thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dry?

Ensure you don’t overbake the cake. It should remain moist in the center and have a slightly soft texture.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Almond flour is essential for the authentic texture of the cake, but you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute if you don’t have almond flour.

Is there a substitute for dark chocolate?

You can use semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor, but the dark chocolate offers a richer taste.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the Torta Caprese is even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop.

How should I store leftover cake?

Wrap leftover cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, it can be frozen. Slice the cake and store each piece in a plastic bag or airtight container.

How can I make this cake more festive?

You can top the cake with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch.

Can I add any other nuts to the cake?

Yes, you can add a mix of hazelnuts or walnuts if you want a different texture and flavor.

Can I use egg substitutes for this recipe?

Since eggs are integral to the cake’s structure, it’s not recommended to replace them in this recipe.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Check with a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake—it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Conclusion

Caprese Cake is a timeless Italian dessert that offers a rich, decadent chocolate flavor paired with the subtle nuttiness of almonds. It’s a perfect gluten-free treat that is easy to make, and its moist texture and delicate crispy crust make it a crowd favorite. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Caprese Cake

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• Author: sara
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Caprese Cake, or Torta Caprese, is a rich and indulgent flourless chocolate cake from the Isle of Capri. Made with dark chocolate and almonds, this naturally gluten-free dessert is moist, soft in the center, and has a slightly crispy crust. Simple yet luxurious, it’s perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 125g (4.4 oz) dark chocolate (50-70% cocoa)
• 185g (6.5 oz) whole blanched almonds (or almond flour)
• 125g (~1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3 medium eggs (room temperature)
• 125g (7 tbsp) granulated sugar
• Powdered sugar for decoration

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Instructions

1. Melt the Chocolate

• In a double boiler, melt butter and dark chocolate together. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Eggs

• Separate the yolks and whites.
• Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

3. Mix the Yolks and Sugar

• Beat the egg yolks with granulated sugar until pale and creamy.

4. Add Almonds and Chocolate

• Gradually incorporate almond flour into the yolk mixture.
• Stir in the melted chocolate mixture and blend well.

5. Fold in the Egg Whites

• Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mixture using a wooden spoon, taking care not to deflate the mixture.

6. Bake the Cake

• Grease and flour a 20 cm (8-inch) springform pan.
• Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top.
• Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 30-35 minutes, until the center is moist and slightly soft.

7. Cool the Cake

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 30-40 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

8. Decorate and Serve

• Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• Nut-Free Version: Replace almond flour with rice flour for a nut-free option.
• Flavor Twist: Add vanilla extract to the batter to enhance flavor.
• Storage: Store the cake at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Slice and freeze individual pieces. Thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian