Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice, especially when I’m looking for something indulgent yet surprisingly easy. The combination of rich chocolate with tart raspberries and the nutty crunch of almonds creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. I find this dessert perfect for gatherings, where it impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth while offering a burst of refreshing fruitiness, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
When I first tried making this Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. With just a few ingredients, I was able to achieve a rich and satisfying dessert that looked stunning and tasted divine. The key is to use fresh raspberries, which burst with flavor and acidity, balancing out the rich chocolate nicely.
During testing, I played around with the almond layer, and I found that toasting the almonds beforehand brings out their natural oils and enhances the flavor dramatically. This small detail made a big difference in the final presentation and taste. Trust me, this slice is a guaranteed hit!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A decadent chocolate experience with a fruity twist
- Nutty crunch from almonds adds texture and flavor
- Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for any occasion
Unlocking the Flavors
One of the secrets to achieving the perfect balance in your Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice is using high-quality dark chocolate. Aim for at least 70% cacao content for a rich and intense chocolate flavor that complements the tartness of the raspberries. If you prefer a less intense chocolate profile, feel free to use semi-sweet chocolate, but keep in mind it will alter the final taste slightly.
The addition of almond meal not only enhances the nutty flavor but also contributes to a moist texture in the slice. By incorporating it with all-purpose flour, you create a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the soft raspberries. If you need a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum.
Baking Techniques to Remember
When baking this slice, make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This is crucial for keeping the texture light and ensuring that the final product isn’t dense or rubbery. Stir gently until you barely see the flour, and it’s okay if there are a few small lumps remaining. The extra mixing that comes from folding in the raspberries will combine the batter further, providing a consistent texture.
It's important to keep an eye on the baking time. Depending on your oven, the slice may take a few minutes more or less than the suggested 25 minutes. Look for the edges to be set and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan, with a slight spring back when you gently press the center. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, give it another minute and check again.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your own delectable Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice:
Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 150g unsalted butter
- 250g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 80g almond meal
- 150g fresh raspberries
- 50g sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Once you have everything you need, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice:
Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a rectangular baking pan (about 9x13 inches) with parchment paper.
Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Mix Sugar and Eggs
In a separate large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and combine.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, almond meal, and salt into the chocolate mixture. Gently fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Fold in Raspberries and Almonds
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and toasted sliced almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
Bake the Slice
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Allow the slice to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper to cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into slices and serve.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving or dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Storing and Freezing
This Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating the slices, where they can last about a week. To maintain their softness, it’s best to place a piece of parchment paper in between layers of slices to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, you can freeze the slice. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before indulging.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice further, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream beautifully balances the rich chocolate and tart fruit, creating an indulgent dessert experience. Additionally, drizzling some warm chocolate sauce or raspberry coulis on top can enhance the presentation and flavor.
If you're looking for a twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt over the top just before serving. The contrast of the salt with the sweet chocolate and tart raspberries can deepen the flavor profile and provide a delightful finishing touch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter.
→ Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans also add a great flavor and texture to the slice.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make this slice gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice
I absolutely love making Chocolate Raspberry Almond Slice, especially when I’m looking for something indulgent yet surprisingly easy. The combination of rich chocolate with tart raspberries and the nutty crunch of almonds creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. I find this dessert perfect for gatherings, where it impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth while offering a burst of refreshing fruitiness, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 150g unsalted butter
- 250g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 80g almond meal
- 150g fresh raspberries
- 50g sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a rectangular baking pan (about 9x13 inches) with parchment paper.
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and combine.
Gradually fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
Sift the flour, almond meal, and salt into the chocolate mixture. Gently fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and toasted sliced almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the slice to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper to cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into slices and serve.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving or dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g