Description
These Chocolate Lava Cakes are rich, decadent, and feature a gooey molten chocolate center. Perfect for a romantic dessert or special occasion, they combine a delicate cake exterior with a warm, flowing chocolate core. Easy to prepare and quick to bake, they make an impressive treat that pairs wonderfully with powdered sugar, berries, or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 6 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- â…› teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Ramekins
- Butter (for greasing)
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Berries
Instructions
- Prepare the ramekins: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter four 6-ounce ramekins thoroughly, then dust them with cocoa powder to prevent the cakes from sticking. Arrange the ramekins on a baking sheet for stability.
- Melt butter and chocolate: In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water or in the microwave, gently melt the butter and chopped chocolate together, stirring constantly until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs in the next step.
- Combine eggs and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt vigorously until the mixture is thick and pale, which typically takes about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Incorporate chocolate mixture: Slowly whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture to combine evenly and avoid scrambling. Then gently fold in the all-purpose flour just until incorporated, ensuring you don’t overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Fill ramekins: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each nearly to the top.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. The edges should be set and firm while the centers remain soft and molten.
- Rest and serve: Allow the cakes to rest for 1 minute out of the oven. Carefully invert each cake onto a serving plate. Serve immediately with optional powdered sugar, berries, or ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- The batter can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 1 day; bring it back to room temperature before baking for best results.
- Be careful not to overbake, as this will cause the molten center to fully set, losing the signature lava effect.
