Description
This Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a gooey, molten chocolate center enclosed in a tender cake exterior. Perfect for a special occasion or an elegant treat, these individual cakes come together quickly and bake in under 15 minutes, making them an impressive yet easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Mixture
- 4 oz unsweetened chocolate
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Batter
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare ramekins: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously grease four individual ramekins to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
- Melt chocolate and butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt the unsweetened chocolate and unsalted butter together, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs later.
- Whisk eggs and sugar: In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk the two large eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale, light, and frothy, which incorporates air for a delicate texture.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually fold the slightly cooled chocolate and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, being gentle to maintain the lightness. Then sift the all-purpose flour over the batter and fold it in until just combined, avoiding over-mixing.
- Fill ramekins and bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. The cakes should have set edges but still have soft centers that will ooze molten chocolate when cut.
- Cool and serve: Let the cakes rest for about one minute after baking. Carefully run a knife around the edges, invert each ramekin onto a plate, and gently lift to release the cake. Serve immediately for the best molten lava experience.
Notes
- Do not overbake; the center should remain gooey for the signature lava effect.
- Greasing ramekins thoroughly or using non-stick spray ensures easy release.
- For extra richness, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter before baking.
- Serve warm with ice cream or fresh berries for a decadent presentation.
- Use high-quality unsweetened chocolate for the best flavor.
