Quick & Easy Julia Child Chocolate Souffle Recipe That Charms Every Time

Julia Child’s chocolate soufflé stands as a pinnacle of French dessert craftsmanship.

Delicate yet decadent, this elegant creation transforms basic ingredients into a magical culinary experience.

Whisked egg whites provide remarkable lift and extraordinary texture to the rich chocolate base.

Precise techniques unlock the secret of achieving that dramatic, sky-high rise.

Professional chefs and home cooks marvel at its seemingly complex preparation.

The dramatic moment when you pull this puffy masterpiece from the oven never fails to impress dinner guests.

This dessert promises pure gastronomic elegance that transcends ordinary sweet treats: prepare to be amazed.

Useful Advice For Julia Child Chocolate Souffle Perfection

• Rescue Deflating Soufflés: Catch fallen edges by running a knife around the ramekin's inside before baking, creating a smooth upward path for rising.
• Master Sugar Coating: Create a textured grip by spinning ramekins to ensure sugar sticks completely, helping soufflé walls climb evenly.
• Prevent Egg White Collapse: Wipe mixing bowl with vinegar or lemon juice to remove invisible grease that prevents perfect peaks.
• Control Chocolate Melting: Break chocolate into uniform pieces for consistent melting, avoiding temperature hot spots that cause burning.
• Crack Eggs Strategically: Separate eggs when cold, then let whites reach room temperature for maximum volume and stability.

Storage Tips To Preserve Julia Child Chocolate Souffle’s Texture

• Air-Tight Container: Transfer the souffle to a rigid, sealed container with a tight-fitting lid. Minimize oxygen exposure by choosing a container that fits the souffle's volume precisely, preventing unnecessary air pockets that accelerate staleness.
• Refrigeration Strategy: Place the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf away from the door. Maintain a consistent temperature between 34-38°F to preserve the souffle's delicate texture and prevent rapid moisture loss.
• Consumption Recommendation: Consume within 24-36 hours for optimal taste and structure. Gently reheat in a preheated 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore some of the original airiness, understanding that the texture will slightly deflate compared to its initial serving.

Exciting Twists On Julia Child Chocolate Souffle

• Nutty Chocolate Crunch: Fold chopped almonds or hazelnuts into the chocolate mixture before adding egg whites for extra texture and depth of flavor.
• Espresso Chocolate Boost: Add 1-2 teaspoons of strong espresso or coffee liqueur to the melted chocolate for a rich, bold coffee undertone.
• Berry Chocolate Fusion: Sprinkle fresh raspberries or strawberry pieces on top of the souffle just before serving, creating a bright and tangy contrast to the chocolate.
• Orange Chocolate Dream: Mix in finely grated orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate base for a classic flavor combination that elevates the dessert.

Parting Thoughts On Julia Child Chocolate Souffle

Chocolate soufflés embody culinary magic, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary dessert masterpiece.

Julia Child’s legendary recipe whispers elegant French techniques through each delicate bite.

Chocolate’s rich depth intertwines with airy egg whites, creating a sensory symphony that delights passionate home chefs.

Complex yet achievable, this classic dessert promises elegant indulgence without intimidating kitchen novices.

Professional presentation meets approachable technique in these remarkable individual treats.

Adventurous palates and curious cooks: dive into this chocolate wonder, share your delicious results, spark conversations, and inspire fellow culinary explorers with your newfound souffle prowess.

Indulge In The Allure Of Julia Child Chocolate Souffle

• Elevate Your Dessert Game: This Julia Child chocolate souffle transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece that looks and tastes like a professional chef created it.
• Experience Textural Perfection: The recipe delivers an incredible contrast between the light, airy exterior and the rich, velvety chocolate interior, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that delights every taste bud.
• Master a Classic French Technique: By following precise steps like whipping egg whites to soft peaks and gently folding ingredients, home cooks can learn an elegant baking method that impresses guests and builds kitchen confidence.
• Quick Luxury in Under 30 Minutes: With just 28 minutes from start to finish, this souffle provides a gourmet dessert experience that feels indulgent yet surprisingly achievable for busy home cooks.

Must-Have Ingredients For Julia Child Chocolate Souffle

• Chocolate, Unsweetened Chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate provides rich, intense flavor and smooth texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create smooth, creamy chocolate base.

• Egg Yolks: Provides structure and creates smooth, dense base for souffle.
• Egg Whites: Creates light, airy texture and helps souffle rise dramatically.
• Cream of Tartar: Stabilizes egg whites and helps maintain perfect peak structure.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances chocolate's depth and adds sophisticated background flavor.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies overall chocolate taste.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens souffle and helps stabilize egg white structure.

• Softened Butter: Used for greasing ramekins to prevent souffle from sticking.
• Granulated Sugar: Helps create crisp exterior when coating ramekin edges.

How To Make Julia Child Chocolate Souffle

Step 1: Melt Chocolate And Butter

Combine chocolate and butter using a double boiler or microwave. For microwave method, heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each session until completely melted. Allow mixture to cool for 3-5 minutes at room temperature.

• Chocolate
• Butter

Step 2: Incorporate Egg Yolks

• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Step 3: Whip Egg White Mixture

• Beat until soft peaks form (about 2 minutes)
• Gradually add sugar, at a time
• Beat 5 seconds between each sugar addition
• Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks develop (approximately 2 more minutes)
• Avoid overbeating the mixture

Step 4: Combine Chocolate And Egg Whites

Gently fold egg whites into chocolate mixture in 3 separate additions. Ensure complete incorporation after each addition.

Step 5: Chill Souffle Batter

Refrigerate batter for 5-10 minutes while preparing oven and ramekins.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Position oven rack in lower third of oven. Preheat to 400°F (204°C).

Step 7: Prepare Ramekins

• Brush with softened butter
• Sprinkle with granulated sugar
• Rotate to coat evenly
• Tap out excess sugar
• Place ramekins on baking sheet

Step 8: Fill Ramekins

• Spoon batter evenly into prepared ramekins
• Smooth tops using knife or icing spatula
• Create small gap between batter and ramekin edge using knife or thumb

Step 9: Bake Souffle

• Place baking sheet in oven
• Immediately reduce temperature to 375°F (191°C)
• Bake for 13-14 minutes
• Check for set edges and slightly jiggly center

Step 10: Serve Immediately

• Remove from oven
• Serve with optional toppings

Julia Child Chocolate Souffle Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Julia Child’s Chocolate Souffle elevates classic French desserts with its rich, airy perfection. Chocolate lovers will discover a masterpiece of culinary elegance that melts delicately on your palate, promising pure indulgence in each elegant spoonful.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs, separated
• 4 ounces (113 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters or ¼ cup) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Stabilizing and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

Sugar and Butter Components:

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, extra soft

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Create a double boiler or use a microwave-safe bowl to gently melt chocolate and butter, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth and glossy. Allow the mixture to cool for 3-5 minutes at room temperature.
2. Incorporate egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted chocolate mixture, whisking until uniformly blended and creating a rich, dark base.
3. Prepare a pristine glass or metal mixing bowl for whipping egg whites with cream of tartar. Beat on high speed until soft, cloud-like peaks emerge, approximately 2 minutes.
4. Gradually introduce granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating for 5 seconds between each addition. Continue whipping until the egg whites transform into stiff, luminous peaks with a glossy appearance.
5. Delicately fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture, using a spatula and incorporating in three gentle stages to maintain the airy texture.
6. Chill the combined batter in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F (204°C), positioning the rack in the lower third of the oven.
7. Prepare four 6-ounce (170 grams) ramekins by generously brushing with softened butter and dusting with granulated sugar, ensuring an even coating. Tap out excess sugar and arrange on a baking sheet.
8. Distribute the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, smoothing the surfaces with a knife or offset spatula. Create a slight border around the edges to help the soufflés rise dramatically.
9. Immediately reduce oven temperature to 375°F (191°C) after placing the baking sheet inside. Bake for 13-14 minutes, watching for set edges and a slight jiggle in the center when gently tapped.
10. Remove soufflés from the oven and serve instantly to preserve their magnificent height and delicate texture. Optional garnishes can be added immediately before presentation.

Notes

• Timing is crucial for achieving the perfect soufflé rise.
• Every minute counts when preparing this delicate dish.
• Beat egg whites just until they form stiff, glossy peaks to maintain maximum volume.
• Gently fold ingredients to preserve the air bubbles that give soufflés their signature lift.
• Prepare ramekins meticulously by creating a smooth butter and sugar coating.
• Warm eggs at room temperature improve mixture consistency and overall texture.
• Chocolate requires gentle melting to prevent burning and maintain smooth quality.
• Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the dramatic, puffy presentation.
• Cold ingredients can dramatically reduce the soufflé’s ability to rise correctly.
• Precision matters more than perfection in creating this elegant French classic.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 218 kcal
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 80 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 186 mg