Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making this Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice because it perfectly balances rich chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries. The combination of almond and chocolate creates a beautiful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whenever I want to impress my friends at a gathering, this is my go-to dessert. Plus, it's straightforward to whip up, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Trust me, once you take a bite, you will understand why this has become one of my favorite recipes.
I remember the first time I made this Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice—it was for a friend’s birthday party. The rich aroma of baking chocolate filled the kitchen, and as soon as I took it out of the oven, everyone couldn’t resist sneaking a piece. The combination of tart raspberries and creamy chocolate is simply divine.
This recipe works great because the raspberries add moisture and a nice contrast to the dense chocolate base. A tip I learned is to use fresh raspberries; they add a pop of flavor and vibrant color that frozen ones just can’t compete with. Enjoying this slice with a cup of coffee or tea elevates the whole experience!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart raspberries
- Creamy almond texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
Understanding the Ingredients
The blend of dark chocolate and butter is crucial for achieving a luscious texture in this slice. Using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content enhances the depth of flavor, providing a perfect balance to the tartness of the raspberries. Additionally, the unsalted butter not only adds richness but also allows for better control over the dish’s salt levels. Always chop the chocolate into small, even pieces for quick and uniform melting.
Ground almonds play a significant role in the overall texture and flavor of the slice. They contribute a moist, chewy quality that complements the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour, although this may slightly alter the texture – expect an even denser slice. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time if making this substitution, as almond flour-based baked goods can bake faster.
Baking Tips for Success
When baking, it’s important to check for doneness correctly. After about 25 minutes, use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, which indicates that the slice is perfectly baked. If it comes out wet with batter, return it to the oven for a few more minutes but be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.
Cooling time is just as essential as baking time. Allow the slice to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to help it set before transferring it to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, cutting into neat squares can be achieved with a sharp knife. For cleaner edges, consider warming the knife slightly under hot water before cutting, which helps in making smoother cuts through the dense slice.
Ingredients
For the Slice
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 150g unsalted butter
- 200g sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 100g ground almonds
- 150g fresh raspberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Ensure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best texture.
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Set it over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth.
Mix Ingredients
Remove the bowl from heat and mix in sugar. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients
Fold in the flour, ground almonds, and salt until just combined. Gently mix in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to break them.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Slice
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Serve slices at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped almonds on top before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead
This Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice can easily be made ahead of time, making it a perfect choice for gatherings. After baking, allow it to cool completely and then store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to two months in the freezer, making it a convenient option for future cravings.
To serve, allow the frozen slice to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. If you're in a hurry, you can also use the microwave for a quick defrost, but be careful not to overheat, as this can affect the texture of the chocolate.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Elevate your Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This contrast adds a delightful creaminess that enhances the overall flavor experience. For a gourmet touch, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate or a raspberry sauce over the top before serving.
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a tablespoon of finely grated orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist. Another variation could involve mixing in different berries, such as blueberries or strawberries, which can also complement the chocolate beautifully. Just ensure that the general moisture content of the fruit is similar to that of raspberries to maintain the integrity of the slice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen raspberries?
Fresh raspberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you need to use frozen ones, make sure to thaw and drain them first.
→ Can I substitute dark chocolate with another type?
You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate, but keep in mind that the taste will be sweeter and less intense.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can omit the ground almonds and replace them with more flour for a nut-free option.
Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice
I absolutely love making this Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice because it perfectly balances rich chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries. The combination of almond and chocolate creates a beautiful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whenever I want to impress my friends at a gathering, this is my go-to dessert. Plus, it's straightforward to whip up, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Trust me, once you take a bite, you will understand why this has become one of my favorite recipes.
Created by: Delilah Spencer
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 slices
What You'll Need
For the Slice
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 150g unsalted butter
- 200g sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 100g ground almonds
- 150g fresh raspberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Set it over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth.
Remove the bowl from heat and mix in sugar. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Fold in the flour, ground almonds, and salt until just combined. Gently mix in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to break them.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped almonds on top before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 5g