Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

The Dreamiest Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe Ever Made

Crafting a delectable gluten free chocolate cake can transform your dessert experience into pure bliss.

Chocolate lovers rejoice with this incredible treat that promises rich, moist indulgence.

Deeply satisfying flavors emerge from carefully selected ingredients that dance together harmoniously.

No one would guess this decadent cake lacks traditional wheat flour.

Baking champions know that alternative flours can create magical results when mixed with precision and passion.

Each slice promises a moment of pure culinary joy that melts in your mouth.

You’ll want to savor every single crumb of this irresistible masterpiece.

Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Ingredient List

Dry Ingredients:
  • Gluten Free Flour: A specialty flour blend that ensures the cake remains light and fluffy without wheat.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the cake.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help the cake rise and become soft.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures the cake remains moist and tender.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • Boiling Water: Helps to create a thin, smooth batter and intensify the chocolate taste.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Butter, Vanilla Extract: Create a smooth, creamy base for the frosting.
  • Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor to the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar, Milk: Help achieve the right consistency and sweetness for the frosting.

Steps To Make Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment

Warm up your oven to 350°F. Grab two 8-inch cake pans and generously coat them with cooking spray or butter, then dust with gluten-free flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine all your dry ingredients:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Gluten-free flour blend
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Create Cake Batter

Add wet ingredients to your dry mixture:
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vegetable oil
  • Vanilla extract

Blend everything using an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until the batter becomes silky smooth.

Step 4: Add Liquid Magic

Pour boiling water into the batter and gently stir. The mixture will become very liquid, which is exactly what you want.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 35-38 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes rest in their pans for 5 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire cooling rack.

Step 7: Whip Up Chocolate Frosting

In a clean bowl, cream together:
  • Softened butter
  • Vanilla extract

Mix in cocoa powder, then gradually add powdered sugar and milk. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

Once cakes are completely cool, generously spread frosting between layers and over the entire cake. Slice and enjoy your glorious gluten-free chocolate cake!

Smart Baking Tips For Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

  • Select Gluten-Free Flour Carefully: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking to ensure the best texture and taste in your chocolate cake.
  • Monitor Baking Time Closely: Check cake doneness at 35 minutes, as gluten-free cakes can dry out quickly if overcooked, using the skewer test for accuracy.
  • Boost Moisture with Extra Ingredients: Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter to prevent dryness and enhance the cake's richness.
  • Create Smooth Frosting Texture: Sift cocoa powder before mixing to eliminate lumps and achieve a silky, professional-looking chocolate frosting.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Incorporate a pinch of espresso powder or strong coffee into the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor without adding liquid.

Fun Takes On Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

  • Vegan Chocolate Cake: Replace eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and swap butter for coconut oil in frosting.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, reduce quantity by half, and add extra vanilla for depth.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk instead of regular milk, coconut oil for butter, and ensure all ingredients are dairy-free certified.
  • Nut-Infused Chocolate Cake: Fold chopped almonds or walnuts into batter, sprinkle crushed nuts on frosting for added crunch and texture.

Perfect Pairings For Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

  • Pair with Raspberry Sorbet: Complement the rich chocolate cake with a tangy, refreshing raspberry sorbet that cuts through the sweetness and adds a bright, fruity contrast.
  • Match with Espresso Martini: Elevate the dessert experience by serving a sophisticated espresso martini, whose coffee notes intensify the chocolate's deep flavor profile.
  • Serve with Whipped Cream and Port: Top the cake with light, airy whipped cream and offer a small glass of sweet port wine, creating a luxurious and indulgent dessert pairing.
  • Accompany with Salted Caramel Latte: Enhance the cake's richness with a warm salted caramel latte, balancing the chocolate's intensity with smooth, creamy caramel undertones.

How To Store Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Properly

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap each layer separately in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Carefully wrap the unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
  • Remove cake from refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to allow it to reach room temperature. This helps restore its soft texture and enhances flavor.
  • Warm individual cake slices for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Check carefully to avoid overheating, which can make the cake tough or dry.

FAQs About Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

  • Why is this cake gluten-free?

The recipe uses gluten-free flour instead of traditional wheat flour, making it safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

  • Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, substitute milk with almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free butter or oil-based alternatives in the frosting.

  • How do I know if the cake is fully baked?

Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done.

  • What makes the cake so moist?

The addition of boiling water helps create a thin, smooth batter that results in an incredibly tender and moist chocolate cake texture.

Why Nigella Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Is A Must-Try

  • Craft a Delightful Gluten-Free Treat: Perfect for anyone with gluten sensitivities, this chocolate cake delivers rich, moist flavor without wheat-based ingredients.
  • Simplify Baking Challenges: Minimal ingredients and straightforward mixing technique make this recipe approachable for bakers of all skill levels, even those new to gluten-free baking.
  • Versatile Celebration Centerpiece: Ideal for birthdays, gatherings, or special occasions where dietary restrictions might limit dessert options, this cake ensures everyone can enjoy a decadent chocolate experience.
  • Quick and Stress-Free Preparation: With just one mixing bowl and basic steps, you can create a delicious dessert in less than an hour, making it a go-to recipe for spontaneous sweet cravings.
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Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe

Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 45-48 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Rich chocolate flavors mingle in this glorious gluten-free chocolate cake, creating a dessert that delights chocolate enthusiasts. Silky smooth layers promise pure indulgence, inviting you to savor each memorable bite of pure chocolatey bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk or dairy-free milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup butter or dairy-free butter
  • 1/4 cup milk or dairy-free milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 180°C (350°F) and prepare two 8-inch cake pans by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, whisking sugar, gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly blended.
  3. Incorporate wet ingredients by adding eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix vigorously for 2 minutes until the batter becomes smooth and fully integrated.
  4. Gently fold in boiling water, which will create an unusually thin cake batter consistency.
  5. Distribute the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, ensuring uniform coverage.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-38 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a skewer that should come out clean when removed.
  7. Allow cakes to rest in their pans for 5 minutes to stabilize, then carefully transfer to a cooling rack.
  8. Prepare chocolate frosting by creaming butter and vanilla until light and fluffy.
  9. Gradually blend cocoa powder into the butter mixture, then slowly incorporate powdered sugar and milk until achieving a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  10. Once cakes are completely cooled, generously frost and assemble the layers, creating a delectable gluten-free chocolate cake.

Notes

  • Swap regular flour with certified gluten-free flour blend to ensure celiac-friendly results.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and more even cake texture.
  • Add extra cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor if desired intensity is stronger.
  • Ensure mixing ingredients thoroughly prevents lumpy consistency and creates rich, moist cake.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-38 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 319 kcal
  • Sugar: 36 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 46 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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