Torta Caprese Recipe – Decadent Italian Flourless Chocolate Almond Cake (Gluten-Free)
This rich Torta Caprese is a luxurious flourless chocolate cake studded with almond flour for a dense, fudgy texture and nutty depth. Originating from Capri, this Italian dessert is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for special occasions or anyone craving an indulgent yet simple chocolate treat.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
42 minutes
Calories:
~567 kcal/slice
ingredients
For the Cake:
6 large eggs, separated (room temperature)
1 cup (8 oz) granulated sugar, divided
10 oz (280g) bittersweet chocolate (70% cacao), chopped
10 oz (1¼ cups / 280g) unsalted butter, cubed
3 cups (340g) super-fine almond flour (or almond meal)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Whip Egg Whites
In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat egg whites and ½ cup sugar until stiff peaks form (~6–7 minutes). Chill in the fridge.
Step 3: Melt Chocolate & Butter
In a double boiler, melt chocolate and butter until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Step 4: Cream Yolks & Sugar
In another bowl, beat egg yolks with remaining ½ cup sugar until pale and thickened (~5 minutes).
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Fold melted chocolate into the yolk mixture, then gently mix in almond flour until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Meringue
Gradually fold the chilled meringue into the batter until no streaks remain.
Step 7: Bake
Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40–42 minutes until edges are set but the center is slightly soft. Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Yes, but the cake will be sweeter and less rich. For best results, stick with 60–70% cacao.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
3. Why did my cake crack?
Overbaking or rapid cooling can cause cracks. Bake until just set and cool gradually.
4. Can I make this nut-free?
No—almond flour is essential. For a nut-free option, try a flourless chocolate cake with cocoa powder.
5. Is a springform pan necessary?
Yes! It ensures easy removal without breaking the delicate cake.
Tools You'll Need
10-inch springform pan
Stand mixer or hand mixer
Double boiler (or heatproof bowl + saucepan)
Parchment paper
Sieve (for dusting sugar)
Tips
Use high-quality chocolate—it’s the star ingredient.
Room-temperature eggs whip better for a lighter texture.
Fold gently to maintain the meringue’s airiness.
Chill before slicing for clean cuts.
Allergy Information
Contains: Eggs, Dairy, Tree Nuts (almonds)
Gluten-free by nature.
For dairy-free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate.
Conclusion
This Torta Caprese is a celebration of simplicity and sophistication—proof that a few premium ingredients can create magic. Whether served with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, its rich, velvety crumb is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your masterpiece with friends (or keep it all to yourself—we won’t judge!). Happy baking!
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