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A freshly baked chocolate lava cake with a rich, molten center oozing onto the plate.

The Ultimate Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe


  • Author: Velma
  • Total Time: PT22M
  • Yield: 4 cakes 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent dessert featuring a soft, fluffy exterior and a gooey, molten chocolate center. Perfect for dinner parties or romantic nights in, this elegant treat comes together in less than 30 minutes — with bakery-quality results every time!


Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
  • 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter & cocoa powder for greasing ramekins

Optional for Serving:

  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ramekins

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
  2. Grease the ramekins with butter and dust them with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

  1. Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl.
  2. Melt using a double boiler (or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently).
  3. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Sugar

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

  1. Slowly pour the melted chocolate into the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
  2. Gently fold in the flour and salt using a spatula. Avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fill the Ramekins

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
  2. Place them on a baking sheet for easy handling.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly soft.
  2. Remove from the oven and let them sit for 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

  1. Run a knife along the edges and carefully invert the cakes onto plates.
  2. Serve with powdered sugar, berries, or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

  • Make ahead: The batter can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours — bring it to room temperature before baking.
  • Extra gooey: Bake only 10 minutes for a more molten center.
  • Add flavor: Stir in espresso powder, orange zest, or a splash of liqueur.
  • Freezer tip: Freeze unbaked ramekins for up to 1 month; bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
  • Prep Time: PT10M
  • Cook Time: PT12M
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: French-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 individual lava cake
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 190mg