Chocolate Souffle With Melted Chocolate Center

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Use the butter to grease 8 small (3-ounce), heat-resistant souffle molds and then use the 1 tablespoon of sugar to lightly dust the insides. Place the molds on a baking sheet and set aside.

2. Step 2

   Melt all the chocolate except the chunks in a double boiler over low heat. Add the warm cream and stir well until completely combined. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the egg yolks and half of the ⅓ cup of sugar. Using a rubber spatula, transfer this mixture to a large mixing bowl and set aside.

3. Step 3

   In a separate bowl, use a wire whisk to beat the egg whites until frothy. Add the remaining sugar and whisk vigorously until the egg whites form soft peaks. Using the spatula, gently fold ⅓ of the egg whites into the chocolate. Fold in the next ⅓ and when the mixture is well combined, add the remaining egg whites, folding until well combined.

4. Step 4

   Use a tablespoon to fill the souffle molds to the rim. Place a chunk of semisweet chocolate in the center of each and bake for 7 to 10 minutes, until puffy. Serve immediately alone or accompanied by whipped cream or espresso ice cream.