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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

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3.8 from 47 reviews

Indulge in these decadent Molten Chocolate Lava Cakes featuring a rich, melty chocolate center and a tender outer cake. Ready in just 22 minutes, this irresistible dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a warm, gooey chocolate delight.

Ingredients

Chocolate Base

  • 5.3 ounces (150g) baking chocolate, chopped
  • ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, diced
  • 1 pinch sea salt (optional)

Batter

  • ⅔ cup (130g) sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • ⅓ cup + 1 Tablespoon (1.8 ounces / 50g) all-purpose flour, sifted

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Generously butter six small ramekins (approximately 6 oz each), coating all sides, then lightly dust the insides with flour to prevent sticking. Set ramekins aside.
  2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: Combine the diced butter and chopped baking chocolate in a small saucepan over very low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, microwave the mixture in a microwave-safe bowl on high power, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Add a pinch of sea salt if using unsalted butter, and stir well.
  3. Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, indicating that air has been incorporated for a light texture.
  4. Combine Chocolate Mixture and Flour: Fold the melted chocolate and butter mixture gently into the egg and sugar mixture until fully combined. Then, carefully fold in the sifted all-purpose flour, ensuring the batter remains light and homogenous.
  5. Fill Ramekins: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
  6. Bake: Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes if you prefer a molten, melting center, or extend to 14 minutes for a slightly more set, moist center. The edges should appear firm while the center remains jiggly.
  7. Cool and Unmold: Allow the lava cakes to cool for a few minutes after baking. Then run a butter knife around the edges to loosen them. Carefully invert or lift the cakes out using a flat knife or spoon onto serving plates.
  8. Serve Warm: Enjoy these warm molten lava cakes immediately for the best gooey chocolate experience.

Notes

  • Use good quality baking chocolate for the richest flavor.
  • Butter and flouring the ramekins helps with easy unmolding.
  • Adjust baking time slightly depending on your oven and desired center consistency.
  • Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
  • Optional sea salt enhances the chocolate depth but is not necessary if using salted butter.
  • Batter can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before baking.