Name: Hot Chocolate Soufflé Recipe
Prep time: 8 h 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 8 h 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 12 tbsp unsalted butter; 8 oz dark chocolate chips; 4 large eggs; 4 large egg yolks; 1 cup sugar; 3 tbsp cornstarch

Dive into the decadent world of a hot chocolate soufflé, a dessert that promises a rich, velvety center with a light, airy exterior. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this soufflé combines the deep, luxurious flavors of dark chocolate with the comforting warmth of a freshly baked treat.

Photos of Hot Chocolate Soufflé Recipe

If you don't usually have dark chocolate chips or unsalted butter in your pantry, make sure to grab them during your supermarket run. Dark chocolate chips provide a robust chocolate flavor, while unsalted butter is essential to control the saltiness in the soufflé. Additionally, cornstarch may not be a common household staple, but it's crucial for achieving the right consistency.

Ingredients For Hot Chocolate Soufflé

Unsalted butter: Provides a rich and smooth texture to the soufflé.

Dark chocolate chips: Offers a deep, intense chocolate flavor essential for the dessert.

Eggs: Acts as a binder and helps the soufflé rise.

Egg yolks: Adds richness and contributes to the soufflé's structure.

Sugar: Sweetens the dessert and helps to aerate the mixture.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the soufflé mixture, ensuring a stable rise.

One reader, Kamila Cabral says:

This hot chocolate soufflé recipe is a game-changer! The rich, velvety texture combined with the deep chocolate flavor is simply divine. Easy to follow and the results are impressive. Perfect for a special dessert treat!

Kamila Cabral

Mastering the Art of Soufflé: Essential Techniques

How to melt chocolate and butter in the microwave: Place the butter and dark chocolate chips in a large glass microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval, until completely smooth.

How to whisk eggs and egg yolks: Crack the eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. Add the eggs and yolks to the melted chocolate mixture and whisk well until fully combined.

How to combine dry ingredients: Stir the sugar and cornstarch together in a small bowl before adding them to the large bowl with the chocolate mixture. Whisk until fully combined.

How to refrigerate batter: Cover the bowl with saran wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the batter to set.

How to prepare ramekins: Grease four 8-ounce ramekins and line the bottoms and sides with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to bake soufflés: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Add the batter to the prepared ramekins and bake for 28 to 30 minutes until the soufflés are set.

How to invert soufflés: Allow the soufflés to cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Place a plate upside down on top of each ramekin, use a pot holder to flip the ramekin over gently, and remove the ramekin. Peel off the parchment paper before serving.

How To Make Hot Chocolate Soufflé

Souffles are a delight! Moist chocolate cake gives way to rich and warm chocolate syrup on the inside. Create this superb hot chocolate souffle at home.

Preparation: 8 hours 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 8 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12tbspunsalted butter
8ozdark chocolate chips
4large eggs
4large egg yolks
1cupsugar
3tbspcornstarch

Instructions

In a large glass microwave safe bowl melt the butter and dark chocolate chips together in 30 second increments until completely smooth.
Add in the eggs and egg yolks and whisk well.
Stir the sugar and cornstarch together in a small bowl then add it to your large bowl and whisk until fully combined.
Refrigerate overnight covered with saran wrap.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Using four 8 ounce ramekins, grease them and line the bottoms and sides with parchment paper.
Add the batter to them and bake them for 28 to 30 minutes.
Allow cooling for 2 to 3 minutes, add a plate, upside down, to the top of the ramekin. Use a pot holder and flip the ramekin over gently.
Gently remove the ramekin and peel off the parchment paper before serving topped with vanilla ice cream.

Nutrition

Calories: 987.10kcal
Fat: 67.99g
Saturated Fat: 38.96g
Trans Fat: 1.43g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.03g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.68g
Carbohydrates: 82.49g
Fiber: 6.23g
Sugar: 63.81g
Protein: 13.77g
Cholesterol: 463.74mg
Sodium: 96.23mg
Calcium: 102.16mg
Potassium: 504.33mg
Iron: 8.15mg
Vitamin A: 437.29µg

Crucial Technique for Achieving a Perfectly Risen Soufflé

To achieve a perfectly smooth and glossy texture in your chocolate mixture, make sure to melt the butter and dark chocolate chips slowly in 30-second increments in the microwave, stirring well after each interval. This prevents the chocolate from seizing and ensures a silky consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Hot Chocolate Soufflé

Melt chocolate and butter together: Use a microwave to quickly melt butter and dark chocolate chips in 30-second increments, saving time over stovetop methods.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine sugar and cornstarch in advance to streamline the mixing process.

Use a stand mixer: Whisk the eggs and egg yolks quickly and efficiently with a stand mixer instead of by hand.

Prepare ramekins ahead: Grease and line the ramekins with parchment paper the night before to save time on baking day.

Chill batter in portions: Divide the batter into the ramekins before refrigerating overnight to save time when ready to bake.

Substitute Ingredients For Hot Chocolate Soufflé Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor that complements the chocolate.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter, offering a similar texture and moisture content.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips have a similar cocoa content and will provide a slightly sweeter flavor.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with milk chocolate chips: Milk chocolate chips will make the soufflé sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
large eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg. This adds moisture and a slight sweetness, suitable for those avoiding eggs.
large egg yolks - Substitute with silken tofu: Use 1/4 cup of blended silken tofu per egg yolk. This is a vegan option that provides a similar texture.
large egg yolks - Substitute with yogurt: Use 1/4 cup of plain yogurt per egg yolk. This adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the soufflé.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Use 3/4 cup of honey for every cup of sugar. Honey adds a different sweetness and moisture to the soufflé.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Use 3/4 cup of maple syrup for every cup of sugar. Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and moisture.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: Use 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for every tablespoon of cornstarch. Flour can thicken the mixture similarly.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Use the same amount of arrowroot powder as cornstarch. Arrowroot is a good thickening agent and is gluten-free.

Impressive Presentation Ideas for Your Soufflé Creation

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter are of the finest quality to enhance the flavor and texture of the soufflé.
Prepare the ramekins meticulously: Grease the ramekins thoroughly and line them with parchment paper to ensure the soufflé rises evenly and can be easily removed for plating.
Achieve a smooth batter: Melt the butter and dark chocolate chips until completely smooth, then whisk in the eggs and egg yolks until the mixture is velvety and well-combined.
Refrigerate for optimal texture: Allow the batter to rest overnight in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for developing the rich, airy texture of the soufflé.
Bake to perfection: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and bake the soufflés for 28 to 30 minutes, ensuring they are set on the outside but still slightly molten in the center.
Invert with precision: After a brief cooling period, invert the soufflés onto plates with care, using a pot holder to handle the hot ramekins and gently peeling off the parchment paper.
Garnish elegantly: Serve the soufflé topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt slightly over the warm soufflé for a luxurious contrast in temperature and texture.
Add a finishing touch: Dust the soufflé with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant presentation that highlights the rich, chocolatey flavor.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Soufflé

Large glass microwave safe bowl: Used to melt the butter and dark chocolate chips together safely in the microwave.
Microwave: Heats the butter and chocolate chips in 30-second increments until smooth.
Whisk: Used to mix the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch into the melted chocolate mixture.
Small bowl: For stirring together the sugar and cornstarch before adding to the main mixture.
Saran wrap: Covers the bowl to refrigerate the batter overnight.
Oven: Preheats to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the soufflés.
Four 8-ounce ramekins: Individual baking dishes for the soufflés.
Parchment paper: Lines the bottoms and sides of the ramekins to prevent sticking.
Pot holder: Protects your hands when flipping the hot ramekins.
Plate: Used to invert the ramekin and serve the soufflé.
Vanilla ice cream: Optional topping for serving the soufflé.

Surprising Fact About the Origins of Soufflé

A fun fact about this hot chocolate soufflé recipe is that the combination of dark chocolate and butter creates a rich and velvety texture, making it a decadent dessert. The use of cornstarch helps to stabilize the soufflé, ensuring it rises beautifully in the oven.

Is Making Soufflé at Home Cost-Effective?

This hot chocolate soufflé recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like dark chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and eggs are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. However, the need for parchment paper and vanilla ice cream might add a bit to the cost. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Given the rich and indulgent nature of the dessert, the cost is justified. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This hot chocolate soufflé recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe contains a significant amount of butter and dark chocolate chips, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
The use of four whole eggs and four additional egg yolks contributes to the high cholesterol content of the dish.
One cup of sugar is a considerable amount of added sugar, which can lead to various health issues if consumed in excess.

However, there are a few redeeming qualities:

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and has been linked to potential health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Eggs are a good source of protein and nutrients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with a healthier alternative, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt.
Use a higher percentage of dark chocolate (70% or above) to reduce the sugar content and increase the antioxidants.
Decrease the number of egg yolks used, as they are high in cholesterol. You can use more egg whites instead, which are lower in calories and fat.
Cut back on the sugar content by using a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, or simply reducing the amount of sugar used.
Incorporate some whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and add a nutty flavor.
Serve the soufflé with fresh berries instead of ice cream to add a pop of color, natural sweetness, and additional nutrients.

Editor's Take: Why This Soufflé Recipe Stands Out

This hot chocolate soufflé recipe is a delightful indulgence, perfect for impressing guests. The combination of dark chocolate and butter creates a rich, velvety base, while the cornstarch ensures a light, airy texture. Refrigerating the batter overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The use of parchment-lined ramekins guarantees an easy release, preserving the soufflé's delicate structure. Serving it with vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm, molten center. Overall, this recipe is a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that promises to elevate any dining experience.

Enhance Your Hot Chocolate Soufflé Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Pears with Honey and Almonds: Imagine the warm, gooey hot chocolate soufflé paired with the delicate sweetness of roasted pears drizzled with honey and sprinkled with toasted almonds. The pears provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, chocolatey goodness, while the honey and almonds add a delightful crunch and sweetness.

Caramelized Banana Slices: Elevate your dessert experience by serving caramelized banana slices alongside your hot chocolate soufflé. The bananas are sautéed in butter and brown sugar until they achieve a golden, caramelized exterior. The bananas' natural sweetness and slight crispiness perfectly complement the soufflé's rich, molten center.

Mint-Infused Whipped Cream: Add a refreshing twist to your hot chocolate soufflé with a dollop of mint-infused whipped cream. The mint brings a cool, invigorating flavor that balances the chocolate's richness. This light and airy whipped cream will melt gently over the warm soufflé, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Raspberry Coulis: A vibrant raspberry coulis can add a burst of tartness to your hot chocolate soufflé. The raspberries are pureed and strained to create a smooth, tangy sauce that cuts through the soufflé's sweetness. Drizzle the coulis over the soufflé or serve it on the side for a visually stunning and delicious contrast.

Spiced Orange Compote: For a zesty and aromatic pairing, consider a spiced orange compote. The oranges are simmered with cinnamon, cloves, and a touch of sugar to create a warm, spiced fruit mixture. This compote adds a citrusy brightness that complements the deep, rich flavors of the hot chocolate soufflé.

Delectable Alternatives to Hot Chocolate Soufflé

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center oozing out of a warm, fluffy cake. This decadent dessert is perfect for those who crave a gooey, indulgent treat. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of luxury.

Molten Peanut Butter Cake: For a twist on the classic lava cake, try this version with a creamy peanut butter center. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a match made in heaven, creating a dessert that's both rich and satisfying.

Raspberry Chocolate Soufflé: Elevate your soufflé game by incorporating fresh raspberries. The tartness of the berries perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a balanced and sophisticated dessert.

White Chocolate Soufflé: Switch things up with a white chocolate version of the classic soufflé. The creamy, sweet flavor of white chocolate offers a delightful contrast to the traditional dark chocolate, making for a lighter yet equally delicious treat.

Espresso Chocolate Soufflé: Add a kick to your dessert with a hint of espresso. The coffee flavor enhances the richness of the chocolate, creating a soufflé that's both bold and indulgent. Perfect for coffee lovers!

Appetizer and Main Course Combinations for a Soufflé-Centered Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a delightful start to your meal with Stuffed Mushrooms. These bite-sized delights are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a rich and creamy filling. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, offering a warm and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy stuffing. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Bruschetta: Kick off your dining experience with a classic Bruschetta. This appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of balsamic glaze, each bite offers a burst of fresh, tangy flavors. The crispness of the bread contrasts beautifully with the juicy tomato topping, making it a perfect start to any meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with a succulent chicken breast marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Grill to perfection and serve with a side of roasted vegetables and wild rice. The citrusy notes combined with the smoky grill marks create a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight in colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, quinoa, and black beans. Seasoned with cumin, paprika, and fresh cilantro, these peppers are baked until tender and topped with melted cheese. Serve with a side of avocado salsa for a complete and hearty meal.

Why trust this Hot Chocolate Soufflé Recipe:

This hot chocolate soufflé recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter creates a rich, velvety texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of eggs and egg yolks ensures a light and airy soufflé, while the sugar and cornstarch provide the perfect balance of sweetness and structure. Refrigerating the batter overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust this recipe for a decadent treat that will impress any guest.

Want to share your experience making this delectable Hot Chocolate Soufflé or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about all things sweet and soufflé-related!

FAQ:

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Sure, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will make the soufflé sweeter and less intense in flavor. Dark chocolate gives a richer taste.

Do I really need to refrigerate the batter overnight?

Yes, refrigerating the batter overnight helps to develop the flavors and ensures a better texture when baked. It also makes the batter easier to handle.

Can I skip the parchment paper in the ramekins?

I wouldn't recommend skipping the parchment paper. It helps the soufflé rise evenly and makes it easier to remove from the ramekin without sticking.

What if I don't have ramekins?

If you don't have ramekins, you can use oven-safe mugs or small bowls. Just make sure they are the right size and can withstand the oven temperature.

How do I know when the soufflés are done?

The soufflés are done when they have risen and the tops are set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.