Chocolate Chiffon Cake Recipe

by Chef Marianne Monteclair

Table of Contents

  1. What Makes Chocolate Chiffon Cake Special?
  2. Ingredients for Chocolate Chiffon Cake
  3. Kitchen Equipment Needed
  4. Step-by-Step Instructions
  5. Tips and Tricks for Success
  6. Chocolate Chiffon Cake Serving Suggestions
  7. Nutritional Information
  8. Variations and Alternatives
  9. Who Should Skip This Recipe?
  10. FAQs About Chocolate Chiffon Cake

What Makes Chocolate Chiffon Cake Special?

Chocolate Chiffon Cake Recipe, There’s something magical about a well-made Chocolate Chiffon Cake. With its airy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth softness, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Unlike dense cakes, chiffon cakes use whipped egg whites and oil to achieve a light yet moist crumb. It’s a beautiful marriage of elegance and indulgence. The first time I baked one, I was amazed at how such a simple process could yield such impressive results. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with it too!


Ingredients for Chocolate Chiffon Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful cake:

IngredientQuantityNotes
All-purpose flour1 1/4 cupsSifted for a lighter texture
Cocoa powder1/3 cupUse high-quality unsweetened
Sugar (granulated)1 1/2 cupsDivided into two portions
Baking powder1 1/2 tsp
Salt1/2 tsp
Vegetable oil1/2 cupNeutral-flavored, like canola
Egg yolks5 largeAt room temperature
Water3/4 cupWarm
Vanilla extract2 tsp
Egg whites7 largeAt room temperature
Cream of tartar1/2 tspHelps stabilize the egg whites

Special Notes

  • If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, substitute some of the cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa.
  • Use a tube pan (un-greased) to ensure the cake rises properly.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make your Chocolate Chiffon Cake effortlessly, you’ll need:

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
  • Sifter
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 10-inch tube pan
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

  1. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, 3/4 cup of sugar, baking powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, egg yolks, water, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until combined.

3. Whip the Egg Whites

  1. In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
  2. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

4. Fold the Mixtures Together

  1. Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate batter to lighten it.
  2. Carefully fold in the remaining egg whites, ensuring no streaks remain.

5. Bake

  1. Pour the batter into the un-greased tube pan.
  2. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Release

  1. Immediately invert the pan onto a cooling rack. Let the cake cool completely upside down.
  2. Once cooled, run a knife around the edges to release the cake.

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Don’t skip sifting: It’s essential for a lump-free batter.
  • Room temperature eggs: They whip better and provide more volume.
  • Inverting the pan: Prevents the cake from collapsing as it cools.
  • Use a serrated knife: For clean, neat slices.

Chocolate Chiffon Cake Serving Suggestions

  • Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
  • Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert.
  • Drizzle with chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 slice)Amount
Calories290
Fat12g
Carbohydrates40g
Protein6g
Fiber2g
Sugar25g

Variations and Alternatives

  • Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
  • Mocha Chiffon Cake: Add 1 tbsp of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
  • Orange Chocolate Chiffon Cake: Replace water with freshly squeezed orange juice and add 1 tsp of orange zest.

Who Should Skip This Recipe?

  • Individuals with egg allergies: This recipe heavily relies on eggs for structure.
  • Those avoiding sugar: It contains significant sugar content.
  • Low-fat diet followers: The oil contributes to the cake’s moistness.

FAQs About Chocolate Chiffon Cake

Q: Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a tube pan?
A: A tube pan is essential for proper rising. If you don’t have one, consider a bundt pan but avoid greasing it.

Q: Why does my chiffon cake deflate after baking?
A: This could be due to over-mixing the batter or under-whipping the egg whites.

Q: How do I store a Chocolate Chiffon Cake?
A: Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.


What Do You Think?

Have you tried this Chocolate Chiffon Cake recipe? I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any variations you tried. If you’re looking for more delicious dessert recipes, check out this heavenly chocolate mousse recipe.

My first experience with Chocolate Chiffon Cake was a revelation—light as air yet bursting with chocolate flavor. I’m sure it will become a staple in your kitchen too. Let’s bake together!


 

Chocolate Chiffon Cake

A luscious and airy chocolate cake with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for any occasion. This cake strikes the ideal balance between lightness and richness, making it a favorite for dessert lovers.
Chocolate Chiffon Cake
👥 Servings 12 slices
Prep Time 20 minutes
🍳 Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder sifted
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 5 large egg yolks at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 7 large egg whites at room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Ensure you have a 10-inch ungreased tube pan ready.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, egg yolks, warm water, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
  • Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar while beating, and continue until stiff peaks form.
  • Incorporate the Egg Whites: Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate batter to lighten it. Then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites, being cautious not to deflate the mixture.
  • Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the ungreased tube pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool the Cake: Once baked, invert the tube pan onto a cooling rack and let the cake cool completely upside down.
  • Release and Serve: Once cooled, run a knife around the edges of the pan to release the cake. Slice and serve as is or with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 slice):
  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 115mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 25g
  • Protein: 6g

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