Classic French Chocolate Soufflé with Grand Marnier
This elegant French chocolate soufflé rises dramatically in the oven, creating a crispy exterior and impossibly light, molten chocolate center. Infused with a hint of Grand Marnier orange liqueur, this sophisticated dessert is the ultimate way to impress dinner guests. Don't be intimidated - with proper technique, you can master this classic.
Ingredients
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
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1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter four 6-ounce ramekins, then coat with granulated sugar, tapping out excess. Place in refrigerator.
💡 Pro Tip: Properly prepared ramekins are crucial for the soufflé to rise straight up the sides. -
2
Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
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3
In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 3 minutes.
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4
Remove from heat and whisk in melted chocolate and Grand Marnier. Let cool for 5 minutes, then whisk in egg yolks one at a time.
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5
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
💡 Pro Tip: Make sure your bowl is completely clean and dry - any grease will prevent proper whipping. -
6
Gently fold one-third of egg whites into chocolate mixture to lighten. Fold in remaining whites in two additions, being careful not to deflate.
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7
Divide batter among prepared ramekins, filling to the rim. Run your thumb around the inside edge to create a small gap - this helps them rise evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until puffed and slightly jiggly in the center. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
👨🍳 Chef's Tips
Timing is everything - have guests seated before you put soufflés in the oven, as they must be served immediately. Room temperature eggs whip to greater volume. You can prepare the chocolate base up to 2 hours ahead and reheat gently before folding in the whites. For extra indulgence, serve with crème anglaise or vanilla ice cream on the side.
🔄 Substitutions
Cointreau or orange extract can replace Grand Marnier. For non-alcoholic version, use orange juice concentrate. Milk chocolate works for a sweeter, less intense flavor. Half-and-half can replace whole milk. Individual variations: add espresso powder for mocha soufflé, or raspberry liqueur for chocolate-raspberry.
📦 Storage
Soufflés must be served immediately - they will deflate within minutes of leaving the oven. However, you can prepare the ramekins and chocolate base ahead. Keep base at room temperature and whip egg whites just before baking. Do not attempt to store baked soufflés. The magic is in the fresh-from-oven drama!
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