Flourless Chocolate Cake Almond (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chocolate Cake

01 - 1 stick unsalted butter, cubed
02 - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
03 - 1 cup sugar
04 - 3 eggs, lightly beaten
05 - 1/2 cup cocoa powder

→ Almond Frosting

06 - 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
07 - 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
08 - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
09 - 3 cups powdered sugar
10 - 1 cup toasted coconut

→ Toasted Coconut (Optional)

11 - 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F and heavily grease two 6-inch cake pans.
02 - In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring after each until smooth. Let the mixture cool for 5-10 minutes.
03 - Whisk the sugar and eggs into the cooled chocolate mixture until smooth. Add the cocoa powder and whisk until fully combined.
04 - Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let cakes cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before frosting.
05 - Using a standing mixer, beat butter and cream cheese on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the almond extract and mix until combined. Reduce the speed to low, gradually add powdered sugar, and mix until incorporated. Increase to medium-high speed and beat for 1-2 minutes until fluffy.
06 - Place one cake layer on a plate or stand and spread 1 cup of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides. Garnish with toasted coconut. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
07 - Spread coconut flakes in a single layer on a greased baking sheet. Broil on low, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.

# Notes:

01 - Refrigerating the cake before frosting ensures easier handling and better stability.