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Best Molten Lava Cake Recipe

Molten lava cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. With a rich, warm, and gooey center that flows out as you cut into it, this dessert is the perfect combination of indulgent cake and molten chocolate. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a decadent treat, molten lava cakes will always impress. These cakes are surprisingly easy to make and can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making them the ideal choice for a last-minute dessert that feels like a luxury.
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Equipment

  • Ramekins: Individual baking dishes for each lava cake. These should be well-greased to ensure the cakes come out easily.
  • Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler: For melting the chocolate and butter.
  • Mixing bowls: To combine the ingredients.
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk: To mix the batter until smooth.
  • Small spoon: For scooping and filling the ramekins with batter.
  • Knife: To test the cakes and ensure the molten center is perfect.

Ingredients
  

  • For the Lava Cake:
  • 6 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate about 1 cup chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour about 2.5 oz
  • For Serving:
  • Vanilla ice cream optional
  • Whipped cream optional
  • Fresh berries optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Ramekins
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and lightly dust with cocoa powder or flour, tapping out the excess. This ensures the cakes come out easily after baking.
  • Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
  • In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate and butter together. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until fully melted and smooth. If using a double boiler, melt the ingredients over simmering water while stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Batter
  • In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and slightly thickened.
  • Gradually pour in the melted chocolate mixture and stir until fully combined.
  • Sift the flour over the batter and gently fold it in until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Step 4: Fill the Ramekins
  • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 2/3 of the way full. If desired, you can place a small piece of chocolate in the center of the batter for an extra gooey surprise.
  • Step 5: Bake the Lava Cakes
  • Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges of the cakes are set and the center is still slightly jiggly. The cakes should have risen, and the top should look firm with a little crack on top. Be careful not to overbake them, as the molten center is what makes this dessert so special.
  • Step 6: Serve Immediately
  • Allow the cakes to cool for about 1 minute before running a knife around the edges to loosen them from the ramekins.
  • Invert each ramekin onto a plate and carefully lift it off. Serve the cakes warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries for garnish.