Jamie Oliver Flourless Chocolate Cake

The Jamie Oliver Flourless Chocolate Cake is a rich, decadent dessert with an irresistibly fudgy texture. Made without any flour, it’s naturally gluten-free and perfect for chocolate lovers who crave something indulgent yet simple to make. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering deep cocoa flavours balanced by a hint of sweetness — a true show-stopper for dinner parties or special occasions.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake?

This flourless chocolate cake is made with melted chocolate, butter, eggs, sugar, and ground almonds (or cocoa powder). Instead of rising like a sponge, it sets into a dense, fudgy texture — similar to a brownie but smoother and silkier. Jamie Oliver’s version celebrates simplicity, using quality chocolate and minimal ingredients for maximum flavour.

Other Popular Recipes

• James Martin Pumpkin Soup
• Jamie Oliver Sausage and Bean Casserole

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Naturally gluten-free – Perfect for those avoiding wheat.
• Simple ingredients – Only a handful of everyday staples needed.
• Rich and indulgent – Deep chocolate flavour with a moist, velvety texture.
• Elegant and versatile – Ideal for both casual and formal occasions.
• Easy to prepare – Quick to mix and bake, with no complex steps.

Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake

• 200g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
• 150g unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 150g caster sugar
• 100g ground almonds (or finely ground hazelnuts)
• 5 large eggs (separated)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Cocoa powder or icing sugar, for dusting

(Optional toppings)

• Fresh berries (raspberries or strawberries)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric whisk or hand mixer
• Saucepan
• 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin
• Spatula
• Oven

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin and line the base with baking parchment.

Step 2: Melt the chocolate and butter

In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt the dark chocolate and butter together. Stir until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Separate and whisk the eggs

Separate the egg yolks and whites into two bowls. In the bowl with yolks, whisk in the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until pale and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the chocolate mixture

Pour the melted chocolate and butter into the yolk mixture. Stir until fully incorporated, then fold in the ground almonds.

Step 5: Whisk the egg whites

Using an electric whisk, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold them into the chocolate mixture, one-third at a time, to keep the batter light and airy.

Step 6: Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the surface. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the centre is just set and a crust forms on top.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before removing. Dust with cocoa powder or icing sugar and serve with whipped cream or berries.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake

• Fresh berries – The tartness balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Vanilla ice cream – Adds a cool, creamy contrast.
• Espresso or coffee – Enhances the chocolate flavour beautifully.
• Whipped cream – Light and airy pairing for a rich dessert.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Flourless Chocolate Cake

• Use high-quality chocolate – It’s the key to a rich, intense flavour.
• Don’t overbake – The centre should remain slightly soft for a fudgy texture.
• Fold gently – Keep the batter airy by folding egg whites slowly.
• Cool completely – The cake firms up as it cools, so resist cutting too soon.
• Add a hint of espresso – A teaspoon of coffee intensifies the chocolate flavour.
• Serve at room temperature – Best texture and flavour when slightly warm or cool.

What are the Variations of Jamie Oliver Flourless Chocolate Cake

• Nut-free version – Replace ground almonds with cocoa powder.
• Mocha version – Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the batter.
• Citrus twist – Mix in orange zest for a zesty finish.
• Salted caramel topping – Drizzle over before serving for extra indulgence.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake

• At room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the fridge – Keeps for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
• In the freezer – Freeze slices for up to 2 months; thaw before enjoying.

How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake

• In the microwave – Heat individual slices for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey centre.
• In the oven – Warm at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes if serving a whole cake.
• Serve warm – Ideal with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Flourless Chocolate Cake Healthier?

Use dark chocolate with at least 80% cocoa and reduce sugar slightly for a lower-sugar version. Swap butter for coconut oil or avocado butter for a lighter alternative.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: ~340 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fibre: 3g

FAQs

Why is my flourless chocolate cake falling apart?

A flourless chocolate cake can fall apart if it’s removed from the pan too soon. Let it cool completely in the tin to firm up before transferring. The absence of flour means the cake needs time to set as it cools.

How do you know when a flourless chocolate cake is done?

The cake is ready when the edges are firm but the centre still has a slight wobble. As it cools, it will set and become fudgy. Overbaking will make it dry and lose its soft texture.

Can I make a flourless chocolate cake without almonds?

Yes, you can replace ground almonds with an equal amount of cocoa powder or finely ground hazelnuts. This keeps the rich texture and chocolatey flavour intact while remaining gluten-free.

How do you get a smooth top on a flourless chocolate cake?

For a smooth top, tap the cake tin gently on the counter before baking to release air bubbles. Avoid opening the oven too early, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.

Final Words

The Jamie Oliver Flourless Chocolate Cake is a simple yet luxurious dessert that proves you don’t need flour to create something truly spectacular. With its dense, fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavour, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s naturally gluten-free and effortlessly elegant. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or any time you need a chocolate fix done right.

Print