There’s something undeniably magical about the rich, velvety taste of chocolate. Whether it’s in the form of truffles, cakes, or bars, chocolate has the power to elevate any dessert experience. One such delightful creation that celebrates the essence of chocolate is the Chocolate Slice – a simple yet sensational treat that captivates taste buds with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 200g (7oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)
- 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter
- 200g (1 cup) caster sugar
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 120g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 30g (1/4 cup) cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 100g (1 cup) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Method:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Melt the Chocolate and Butter: Break the dark chocolate into pieces and place them in a heatproof bowl along with the unsalted butter. Melt the mixture over a pan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix the Batter: Gradually add the caster sugar to the melted chocolate and butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Add the beaten eggs slowly, mixing well after each addition.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If you’re using nuts, fold them into the batter at this stage, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
- Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the chocolate slice to cool completely in the tray before slicing it into squares or rectangles.
Conclusion:
The allure of a Chocolate Slice lies not just in its simplicity but in the symphony of flavors and textures it brings to the table. Each bite is a celebration of the harmonious marriage between the intense richness of chocolate and the delicate sweetness of the batter. The optional addition of nuts introduces a delightful crunch, elevating the experience further.
This recipe transcends mere confectionery; it’s an invitation to savor a moment of pure indulgence. Whether served as a dessert at a gathering or savored quietly with a cup of coffee, the Chocolate Slice remains an iconic testament to the timeless allure of chocolate. So, dive into the world of cocoa-infused bliss with this irresistible recipe and treat yourself to a slice of heaven.
