How to Make Chocolate Soufflé – A Classic French Dessert

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction

The chocolate soufflé is one of France’s most iconic desserts – light, airy, rich, and dramatic as it rises impressively in the oven. While it may seem intimidating, this elegant dessert is surprisingly simple when you follow a few key steps. Whether you’re cooking for a dinner party or just treating yourself, this guide will teach you how to make a perfect chocolate soufflé at home using British ingredients and methods.

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What is a Chocolate Soufflé?

A soufflé (pronounced soo-flay) is a baked dish made from a flavoured base – in this case, rich dark chocolate – combined with whipped egg whites to create a soft, fluffy texture that rises beautifully in the oven. Served hot and straight from the oven, it’s light on the outside and deliciously gooey inside.

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Ingredients

(Makes 4 individual soufflés)

100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa recommended)

2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)

2 tbsp plain flour

150ml whole milk

2 tbsp caster sugar (plus extra for dusting)

3 large eggs (separated)

A pinch of salt

½ tsp vanilla extract

Icing sugar (for dusting)

Optional: a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche to serve

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Equipment

4 ramekins (approx. 7–8cm wide)

Electric whisk or stand mixer

Pastry brush (for greasing)

Heatproof bowl

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Method

1. Prepare the ramekins

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas Mark 6. Generously butter the insides of the ramekins using upward strokes (this helps the soufflé rise straight). Dust the ramekins with caster sugar, tapping out the excess. Place them on a baking tray.

2. Make the chocolate base

Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir gently until smooth, then remove from heat.

In a separate saucepan, heat the milk until just steaming. Stir in the flour and whisk to avoid lumps. Cook for a minute, then pour into the melted chocolate. Add the vanilla and mix until you have a thick, glossy base. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Beat the egg yolks

Add the egg yolks one by one into the chocolate mixture, stirring quickly to combine. The mixture should be smooth and rich.

4. Whisk the egg whites

In a clean, dry bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add the 2 tablespoons of caster sugar and continue whisking until stiff, glossy peaks form.

5. Fold gently

Using a spatula, fold one-third of the egg whites into the chocolate base to loosen it. Then gently fold in the remaining egg whites in two batches. Be careful not to knock out the air – this is what makes the soufflé rise.

6. Fill and bake

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared ramekins. Level the tops with a palette knife or the back of a spoon. Run your thumb around the inside rim of each ramekin – this helps the soufflés rise evenly.

Place the ramekins on the baking tray and bake in the centre of the oven for 12–14 minutes. The tops should be puffed and just set, with a slight wobble in the middle.

7. Serve immediately

Dust with icing sugar and serve at once. Chocolate soufflé waits for no one – it starts to deflate within minutes! Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for extra indulgence.

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Tips for Success

Always use clean, dry bowls for whisking egg whites – any grease will prevent them from whipping properly.

Don’t overbake – the centre should remain soft and gooey.

Use good-quality chocolate with a high cocoa content for best flavour.

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Storage and Make-Ahead

Soufflés are best served fresh, but you can prepare the chocolate mixture and grease the ramekins ahead of time. Store the unbaked soufflés in the fridge for up to 4 hours, then bake just before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Impressive presentation: Perfect for entertaining.

Simple ingredients: No fancy tools required.

Luxurious texture: Crisp top, soft middle, rich flavour.

Customisable: Add a splash of coffee, orange zest, or chilli for variation.

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Conclusion

The chocolate soufflé is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple when you follow the right method. With just a few ingredients and some careful folding, you can create a stunning treat with a soft, molten centre and a beautifully risen top. Don’t be afraid – give it a go and enjoy a little taste of France from your own kitchen.

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Tried this recipe?

Leave a comment or tag your photos with #ChocolateSouffleUK – we’d love to see how it turned out!