Why Make This Recipe

Chocolate Lava Cake is a classic dessert that is both indulgent and impressive. It’s a perfect treat for special occasions or when you’re simply craving something rich and delicious. The gooey chocolate center makes this cake truly special, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert right in your own kitchen.

How to Make Chocolate Lava Cake

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and place them on a baking sheet.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until combined.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and stir to combine.
Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
Bake for about 12-14 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
Let them cool for 1 minute, then invert onto plates. Serve immediately, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

How to Serve Chocolate Lava Cake

Serve your Chocolate Lava Cake warm to enjoy the gooey center. You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra treat. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar can also make a nice garnish.

How to Store Chocolate Lava Cake

If you have any leftovers, cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave gently for a few seconds to warm them up without cooking the center further.

Tips to Make Chocolate Lava Cake

Make sure not to overbake the cakes; the centers should be soft and slightly jiggly.
Use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor.
You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it in the ramekins. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Variation

You can add a splash of espresso or coffee to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor. You may also try adding a few tablespoons of peanut butter or Nutella into the center before baking for a nutty surprise.

FAQs

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate?

Yes, using dark chocolate will give a richer flavor, but make sure to adjust the sweetness if you prefer a sweeter cake.

2. Can I make the lava cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

3. What should I do if my cakes do not have a gooey center?

It may be that the cakes were baked too long. Make sure to keep an eye on them and test for doneness at the 12-minute mark.

Chocolate Lava Cake

Print Recipe

An indulgent dessert with a gooey chocolate center, perfect for special occasions or satisfying chocolate cravings.

Author: lila-monroe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and place them on a baking sheet.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until combined.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and stir to combine.
Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
Bake for about 12-14 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
Let them cool for 1 minute, then invert onto plates. Serve immediately.

Notes

Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream. Cover leftovers and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: chocolate, lava cake, dessert, baking, indulgent