Decadent Lava Cake

Lava cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. This molten chocolate dessert delivers a rich, warm, and gooey center that oozes out with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of chocolate desserts, this lava cake will quickly become your go-to. The combination of semisweet chocolate, butter, eggs, and cocoa powder creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. What’s even better? These individual lava cakes bake in just 10-13 minutes, ensuring you’re never far from a decadent dessert. The lava-like center of each cake makes for a dramatic and delicious finish to any meal. Add a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or some bright berries for an extra special touch.

Ingredients

• 6 ½ (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

• ½ cup butter, cut into 8 pieces

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• ⅓ cup white sugar

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 4 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 pinch salt

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease and flour four 6-ounce ramekins.

2. Place chocolate and butter in the top of a double boiler over simmering water. Stir frequently, scraping down the sides with a rubber spatula to avoid scorching, until chocolate is melted, about 5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, combine eggs and sugar; beat with an electric mixer until pale and thick, about 5 minutes.

4. Mix in the melted chocolate, flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.

5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins and place them on a baking tray.

6. Bake in the preheated oven until the sides are set but the middle is still jiggly, 10 to 13 minutes.

7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Additional Time: 5 minutes for cooling

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Add Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or cherries for a pop of color and flavor.

2. Ice Cream Topping: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can complement the warm, rich chocolate.

3. Flavored Lava Cake: Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the batter for a different flavor twist.

4. Nuts: Add chopped nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts, or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture alongside the smooth chocolate.

5. Dark Chocolate: Swap the semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a slightly more intense flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: After baking, allow the lava cakes to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the lava cakes in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. The center may not be as molten after reheating, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

How do I know when the lava cakes are done?

You should bake them until the sides are firm but the center is still soft and jiggly. The timing can vary, so start checking at 10 minutes and adjust based on your oven.

Can I make lava cakes ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it in the ramekins for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply place them in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What kind of chocolate should I use for lava cake?

Using good-quality semisweet chocolate is key to achieving the best flavor. Avoid using chocolate chips, as they don’t melt as smoothly as bars of chocolate.

Can I freeze lava cakes?

While it’s not recommended, you can freeze uncooked lava cakes for up to a month. When ready to bake, do so from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Can I use a microwave to melt the chocolate and butter?

Yes, you can melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted.

Why does the center of the lava cake stay runny?

The center remains runny because the cake is designed to be undercooked in the center, which creates the signature molten “lava.” Be careful not to overbake.

How can I make the cakes more decadent?

Serve with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra richness.

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour is the best for this recipe, but you could try using almond flour for a gluten-free option, though the texture may change slightly.

How should I prepare the ramekins for baking?

Grease and flour the ramekins to ensure the cakes easily release after baking. This helps maintain the perfect shape and prevents sticking.

What can I pair with lava cakes for dessert?

Lava cakes pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries, a scoop of ice cream, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion

This molten lava cake is the ultimate chocolate dessert that will satisfy your cravings and impress guests at the same time. With a gooey, chocolatey center and a perfectly baked exterior, it’s a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees an unforgettable sweet experience.