Description
Julia Child’s chocolate souffle elevates classic French desserts with its airy, rich chocolate essence. Light yet intense, this elegant dish promises a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor with pure chocolate pleasure.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large eggs (separated)
- 4 oz (113 g) semi-sweet chocolate (coarsely chopped)
- 4 tbsps (60 ml or ¼ cup) unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp cream of tartar
- 3 tbsps granulated sugar
- 4 tsps granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (extra soft)
Instructions
- Chocolate Preparation: Melt chocolate and butter using a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth and glossy. Allow mixture to cool briefly at room temperature.
- Flavor Integration: Whisk egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted chocolate, creating a rich, dark base with uniform consistency.
- Egg White Transformation: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to whip until stiff, luminous peaks develop with a glossy sheen.
- Batter Fusion: Gently fold whipped egg whites into chocolate mixture in three stages, maintaining the delicate, airy texture with careful, deliberate strokes.
- Ramekin Preparation: Butter and sugar four ramekins thoroughly, ensuring complete and even coverage. Position oven rack in lower third of oven and preheat to 400°F (204°C).
- Baking Process: Transfer batter to prepared ramekins, smoothing surfaces and creating a slight border. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (191°C) immediately after placing baking sheet inside. Bake for 13-14 minutes, watching for set edges and a subtle center jiggle.
- Serving Finale: Remove soufflés from oven and serve immediately to preserve their dramatic height and ethereal texture. Optional garnishes can be added just before presentation for an elegant touch.
Notes
- Prevent Chocolate Seizure: Melt chocolate slowly and gently to avoid burning, which can cause a grainy, unappetizing texture.
- Master Egg White Technique: Ensure absolutely clean, oil-free bowl and whisk for perfect meringue that creates the signature souffle lift.
- Temperature is Critical: Preheat oven precisely and reduce heat immediately after inserting souffles to achieve optimal rise and airy consistency.
- Serve Immediately: Souffles deflate within minutes, so time your plating and serving perfectly to capture their dramatic, puffy glory.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg