Chocolate Lava Cake
Indulge in a rich and decadent Chocolate Lava Cake featuring a velvety chocolate exterior and a molten, gooey center that melts delightfully in your mouth. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, delivering a flawless blend of comfort and luxury that satisfies every chocolate lover’s craving.
- Author: James
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 individual servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be gluten-free with substitution
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare your ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously butter individual ramekins or small baking dishes to prevent sticking. Measure and gather all ingredients to streamline the baking process.
- Melt the chocolate and butter: Chop the dark chocolate and melt it together with the unsalted butter in a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water (double boiler method), or microwave in short bursts. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
- Whisk eggs and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the whole eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar vigorously until light, frothy, and slightly thickened to create a light batter.
- Combine ingredients: Gradually fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar blend. Add vanilla extract and salt, then gently sift in the flour and fold carefully to maintain a tender crumb without overmixing.
- Bake: Evenly divide the batter among prepared ramekins placed on a baking sheet. Bake immediately for 12-14 minutes until edges are set but the center remains soft and gooey.
- Serve while warm: Let the cakes cool for a minute or two before carefully inverting them onto plates. Upon cutting, the molten center should ooze out, creating the signature lava effect.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
- Watch baking time carefully to retain the molten center; slightly underbaking is ideal.
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation and fluffier texture.
- Grease ramekins thoroughly to ensure cakes release perfectly.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and gooey consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake (approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Chocolate Lava Cake, Molten Chocolate Cake, Gooey Chocolate Cake, Decadent Dessert, Easy Chocolate Dessert