This simple, small-batch chocolate cake is the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven. Made with just one egg and a few pantry staples, it’s light, fluffy, and full of rich chocolate flavor. Best of all, it can be cooked on the stovetop in a regular heavy-bottomed pan.
Ingredients
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1 large egg (room temperature)
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1/3 cup granulated sugar (add gradually)
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1/4 cup neutral oil (like canola or sunflower oil)
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1/3 cup all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1–2 tablespoons chocolate chips (for topping; optional but recommended)
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A pinch of salt (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
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Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Equipment
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Hand whisk or electric beater
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Mixing bowl
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Fine mesh sieve (for sifting)
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5-inch round cake mould or heat-safe bowl
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Heavy-bottomed pan with a lid (like a deep non-stick skillet or Dutch oven)
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Trivet or ring stand (to raise the cake mould off the direct base of the pan)
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Toothpick or skewer (for testing doneness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
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Crack the egg into a clean mixing bowl.
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Begin whisking or beating the egg. After 10–15 seconds, start adding the sugar gradually, a little at a time.
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Continue whisking for 5–7 minutes (if using a hand whisk, or 2–3 minutes with an electric beater), until the mixture turns pale, thick, and reaches stiff ribbon-like peaks. This aeration is key for a fluffy cake without baking soda.
Tip: If your mixture doesn’t reach stiff peaks, the cake may be denser. Cold eggs can prevent proper aeration—use room-temperature eggs for best results.
Step 2: Incorporate the Oil
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Add the 1/4 cup oil to the whipped egg mixture. Beat or whisk for about 1 more minute, just until fully combined.
Step 3: Fold in the Dry Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
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Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently fold using a spatula (do not beat), mixing just until no dry spots remain.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and mix gently to incorporate.
Be careful not to overmix. This can deflate the air bubbles and result in a dense cake.
Step 4: Prepare the Mould
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Lightly grease a 5-inch round cake mould with oil or butter. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.
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Pour the batter into the prepared mould and tap gently on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
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Sprinkle a generous amount of chocolate chips on top if desired.
Step 5: Cook Without an Oven (Stovetop Method)
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Place a heavy-bottomed pan (like a deep non-stick skillet or Dutch oven) on the stove. Put a trivet, ring stand, or folded foil at the bottom to keep the cake mould from touching direct heat.
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Cover with the lid and preheat on medium heat for 5 minutes.
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Carefully place the filled mould inside the pan. Cover the lid tightly.
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Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20–30 minutes.
Do not open the lid frequently—this releases steam and heat. After 20 minutes, you can check doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Optional: Oven Method
If you prefer using an oven:
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Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
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Bake the cake for 20–30 minutes, checking with a toothpick around the 20-minute mark.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
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Once done, remove the mould from the pan and let the cake cool for at least 10–15 minutes before unmoulding.
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Slice and serve as is, or top with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of ice cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
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Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
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Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt for a light dessert.
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Top with fresh fruits like strawberries or banana slices.
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For a richer finish, frost with a quick ganache or spread Nutella on top.
Storage
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
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You can also refrigerate it for up to 4–5 days. Reheat slightly before serving to revive softness.
Tips & Variations
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No cocoa? Replace with extra flour and add chocolate chips or chunks to keep the flavor rich.
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No chocolate chips? Try crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or just leave plain.
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Add a dash of coffee powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
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Make it eggless: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup plain yogurt or 1/4 cup mashed banana (texture may vary slightly).
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