Easy Chocolate Lava Cake

Rich, decadent, and irresistibly gooey, these homemade chocolate lava cakes have a warm, melty center surrounded by a soft, delicate crust. Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or when you just need a chocolate fix!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 22 minutes from start to finish.
• Minimal ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples.
• Rich and indulgent – Perfectly gooey center with a soft outer layer.
• Restaurant-quality dessert – Feels fancy but is effortless to make at home.
• Versatile toppings – Pairs beautifully with ice cream, berries, or powdered sugar.

Ingredients

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

• Semisweet chocolate, chopped
• Unsalted butter, cubed
• Large eggs
• Large egg yolks
• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Optional toppings: Powdered sugar, fresh berries, vanilla ice cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Ramekins

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and lightly dust with flour.

2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and cubed butter in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.

3. Mix the Eggs and Sugar

1. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick and pale.

4. Combine the Ingredients

1. Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly.
2. Gently fold in the flour, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined.

5. Bake the Lava Cakes

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
2. Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let cool for 1-2 minutes, then run a knife around the edges to loosen. Carefully invert onto plates.
2. Dust with powdered sugar, garnish with berries, or serve with vanilla ice cream. Enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 lava cakes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Variations

• Peanut Butter Lava Cake: Add a teaspoon of peanut butter in the center before baking.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Use bittersweet chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor.
• Mocha Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter.
• Nutella Center: Drop a spoonful of Nutella into each ramekin before baking.
• Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for a Mexican chocolate twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked lava cakes in ramekins for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, molten center.

FAQs

1. Can I make lava cakes ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the batter, fill the ramekins, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

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

The edges should be firm, but the center should still be slightly jiggly.

3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, but the cakes will be sweeter and slightly less rich.

4. What if I don’t have ramekins?

You can use a muffin tin, but reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

6. Why did my lava cake collapse?

Overmixing the batter or underbaking can cause it to collapse. Be sure to follow baking times carefully.

7. What’s the best way to invert the cakes without breaking them?

Let them sit for 1-2 minutes, then place a plate over the ramekin and flip gently.

8. Can I make a single-serving version?

Yes! Halve the recipe and bake in a single ramekin for the same time.

9. Can I use dairy-free butter and chocolate?

Absolutely! Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate for a lactose-free version.

10. How do I make the center extra molten?

Chill the batter in the ramekins for 30 minutes before baking for an extra gooey center.

Conclusion

This easy chocolate lava cake is the ultimate indulgent treat, perfect for any occasion. With a rich, molten center and a delicate crust, it’s a restaurant-quality dessert made effortlessly at home. Whether you’re celebrating or just craving chocolate, this quick and foolproof recipe is a must-try!

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