Hot chocolate cake

Hot Chocolate Cake

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for the
souffle cups
Granulated sugar
12 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
8 large egg yolks, plus 7 large eggs
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour


1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Generously butter six 6-ounce souffle
cups and sprinkle each with granulated sugar. Tap out the excess
sugar.

2. In the top of a double boiler set over barely simmering water,
melt the butter and chocolate together. Remove the top of the
double boiler pan from the heat.

3. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk
attachment and set on low speed, beat the egg yolks and eggs for
about 2 minutes, or until light and smooth. With the mixer running,
pour the melted chocolate into the bowl and mix for about 2 minutes
longer.

4. Put the confectioners' sugar and flour in a fine-mesh sieve and
sprinkle into the chocolate mixture. With the mixer on medium
speed, beat for 30 seconds, or until well mixed.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared souffle cups, leaving about
1/4 inches of space below the rim. Set the souffle cups on a baking
sheet and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until puffed and about 1
inch higher than the rim. The centers will be soft but not sticky.

6. Remove the cakes from the oven and immediately invert each onto
a serving plate. Remove the cup