Chocolate Lava Cakes

Chocolate lava cakes are a decadent dessert with a rich, gooey chocolate center that flows out when you cut into them. These individual-sized cakes are surprisingly simple to make and perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat any time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadently Rich: The combination of a soft cake exterior and molten chocolate center is irresistible.
• Quick to Make: Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or Valentine’s Day.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different fillings or toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing ramekins)
• Semi-sweet chocolate (chopped or chips)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Egg yolks
• All-purpose flour
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust them lightly with cocoa powder or flour. Tap out any excess.
2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar together until pale and slightly thickened.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
5. Add Flour: Sift the flour into the mixture and gently fold until just combined.
6. Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the cakes cool for 1-2 minutes, then run a knife around the edges to loosen. Invert onto plates, serve warm, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4 individual cakes.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Peanut Butter Lava Cakes: Add a teaspoon of peanut butter to the center of each cake before baking.
• White Chocolate Center: Substitute white chocolate for the center for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Add a Hint of Orange: Mix in orange zest for a citrusy flavor.
• Spiced Lava Cakes: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warm, spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm cakes in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to re-melt the centers.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cakes in their ramekins for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

1. What type of chocolate should I use?

Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the best flavor.

2. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the batter and store it in the ramekins in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bring them to room temperature before baking.

3. What if I don’t have ramekins?

Use a muffin tin lined with buttered and floured paper cupcake liners as an alternative.

4. How do I know when the cakes are done?

The edges should be set, but the center should jiggle slightly when gently shaken.

5. Can I make these lava cakes dairy-free?

Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free chocolate.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

7. Can I add a filling?

Absolutely! Try adding caramel, Nutella, or fruit preserves to the center before baking.

8. What’s the best way to serve these cakes?

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

9. Why did my lava cakes stick to the ramekins?

Ensure the ramekins are thoroughly greased and dusted with cocoa powder or flour to prevent sticking.

10. Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Yes, but the cakes will be sweeter. Reduce the sugar slightly if using milk chocolate.

Conclusion

Chocolate lava cakes are the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers, combining a soft, rich cake with a molten chocolate center. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, they’re perfect for any special occasion or when you want to treat yourself. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a warm, gooey, chocolatey indulgence!

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