Description
Indulge in these classic Chocolate Lava Cakes that feature a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a tender cake exterior. Perfect for an elegant dessert, these individual cakes are easy to prepare and bake quickly, ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a decadent chocolate experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Lava Cakes Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing
- Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins thoroughly with cooking spray or butter and arrange them on a baking sheet to prepare for baking the lava cakes.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together by heating in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Stir the powdered sugar into the melted chocolate and butter mixture until it is well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Eggs: Add the two large eggs and two large egg yolks to the chocolate mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure a smooth, homogenous batter.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile of the batter.
- Fold in Flour: Gently fold the all-purpose flour into the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the tenderness of the cake.
- Fill the Ramekins: Evenly divide the prepared batter among the four greased ramekins, ensuring each is filled appropriately for an even bake.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with ramekins into the preheated oven and bake for 12–14 minutes. The edges should be firm while the center remains soft and molten.
- Rest and Loosen: Remove the ramekins from the oven and allow them to rest for 1 minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cake to loosen them from the ramekin.
- Invert and Serve: Invert each cake onto a dessert plate carefully. Serve immediately, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Do not overbake; the center should remain molten for the signature lava effect.
- Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate for best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to grease ramekins well to prevent sticking when inverting.
- These cakes are best served warm for optimal molten center experience.
- Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate if desired, but bring to room temperature before baking.
