Chocolate Soufflé for Two

Name: Chocolate Soufflé for Two
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing; 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 2 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Recipes

When I decided to make a chocolate soufflé for two, I was looking for a quick treat that would impress my partner. This recipe has become our go-to for date night, thanks to its rich taste and airy texture. The best part? It comes together in a matter of minutes, allowing us to enjoy our evenings without spending hours in the kitchen. Each bite is a delightful combination of deep chocolate and light, fluffy goodness, making it the perfect sweet indulgence for us to share.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:41:37.187Z

Making a chocolate soufflé is often seen as a daunting task, but I found that approaching it step by step eased my worries. The key is to whip the egg whites to just the right stiffness—this is what creates that beautiful rise in the oven. I remember the first time it worked perfectly; the soufflés puffed up beyond expectation, and they tasted divine.

Another tip I've learned is to fold the chocolate mixture into the beaten whites gently yet thoroughly. This method ensures that the soufflé retains as much air as possible while incorporating the rich chocolate flavor. Each time we make it together, it's not just a dessert; it feels like a joyful celebration of our time spent cooking.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Key Techniques for Success

Achieving the perfect soufflé relies heavily on the technique used when whipping the egg whites. Start by ensuring your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry. Any grease or residual yolk can hinder the incorporation of air, resulting in a flat soufflé. Beat the egg whites on medium speed until foamy, then gradually add the sugar to stabilize the foam. Continue whipping until they reach stiff peaks; this means the peaks should stand straight up when the beaters are lifted, which will help the soufflé rise beautifully during baking.

Another crucial technique is the folding process when combining the egg whites with the chocolate mixture. It’s vital to be gentle to preserve the air you've just whipped into the eggs. Use a rubber spatula to fold the mixtures together, making sure to scrape along the bottom and sides of the bowl. The goal is to achieve a homogenous mixture without deflating the egg whites. This delicate balance of lightness and integration is key to achieving that heavenly soufflé texture.

Understanding Your Ingredients

The choice of chocolate is paramount to the flavor profile of your soufflé. Opting for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content will provide a richer, deeper taste that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar and the creamy texture. If you prefer a less intense flavor, you can use semi-sweet chocolate, but keep in mind that this will alter the overall sweetness of your final product.

In addition to chocolate, the role of the eggs cannot be overstated. They not only provide structure but also contribute to the soufflé’s rise once heated. Using fresh eggs at room temperature can enhance the whipping process, as warm egg whites whip up more easily, yielding a fluffier texture. For those with dietary restrictions, egg substitutes such as aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can be used, but note that achieving the same volume may take some trial and error.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful chocolate soufflé for two.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
2 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect soufflé.

Prep the ramekins

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two ramekins with butter, then dust them with granulated sugar, tilting to coat evenly. This will help the soufflés rise beautifully.

Melt chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and butter. Melt them together over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Whip the egg whites

In a separate bowl, add the egg whites and pinch of salt. Using a hand mixer, beat until foamy, then gradually add 2 tablespoons of the granulated sugar. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.

Combine mixtures

Stir the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract into the cooled chocolate mixture until well combined. Gently fold in one-third of the whipped egg whites to lighten the mixture, followed by the rest of the egg whites in two additions.

Bake

Divide the soufflé mixture evenly between the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until puffed and set.

Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve immediately for the best texture!

Enjoy your decadent chocolate soufflé while it's still warm and fluffy!

Pro Tips

For best results, use high-quality chocolate and serve your soufflés immediately after baking to enjoy their airy texture and rich flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your chocolate soufflé immediately after baking is essential for optimal texture. The soufflé will start to deflate as it cools, losing that airy quality. To elevate your dessert further, consider pairing it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The richness of the chocolate combined with the creaminess of these toppings creates a delightful balance, enhancing the overall experience.

To impress your partner even more, a light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds aesthetic appeal but also a touch of sweetness that complements the deep chocolate flavor. Additionally, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a hint of orange zest to brighten the dish—a technique that brings your couple’s dessert to the next level.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While soufflés are typically best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chocolate mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before folding in the whipped egg whites. This allows for a faster assembly when you’re ready to bake, making it a suitable choice for special occasions when you want to minimize kitchen time.

Should you have any leftover soufflé (which is rare), it’s important to note that soufflés do not store well as they lose their signature rise and become dense. However, you can enjoy the rich chocolate flavor by repurposing the leftovers. Simply transform it into a decadent chocolate pudding by gently reheating in a double boiler and adding a bit of cream to the mix to restore its smoothness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make chocolate soufflés in advance?

Soufflés are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What can I substitute for egg whites?

You can use aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, as a vegan substitute for egg whites. It works well for creating a similar texture.

→ How do I know when my soufflés are done?

When the soufflés rise and the tops are slightly set, they are done. A little jiggle in the center is normal, as they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.

→ Can I add flavors to the soufflé?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding a splash of coffee, a hint of orange zest, or any flavored extract to the chocolate mix.