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Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe Easy Homemade Molten Center Delight

chocolate lava cake - featured image

This decadent chocolate lava cake features a rich, molten chocolate center with a soft cake exterior. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, delivering nostalgic comfort and indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
  • 6 ounces (170g) bittersweet or dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (32g) all-purpose flour, sifted (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease the ramekins generously with butter and lightly dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
  2. Melt the butter and chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk 2 large eggs, 2 egg yolks, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar vigorously until pale and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Slowly pour the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent scrambling. Add vanilla extract if using.
  5. Gently fold in the sifted flour and a pinch of salt using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins (about 3.5 ounces or 100g per ramekin). Place them on a baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are firm but the center is soft and jiggly.
  8. Remove from oven and let cakes sit for 1 minute. Run a knife around edges and invert onto serving plates. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for better batter texture. Melt chocolate and butter gently to avoid burning. Dust ramekins with cocoa powder for easy release. Check cakes at 12 minutes to avoid overbaking. Batter can be refrigerated in ramekins up to 24 hours before baking; add 1-2 minutes to baking time if baking from cold.

Nutrition

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