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Chocolate Lava Cakes Recipe

Decadent, gooey chocolate lava cakes with a molten center are ready in just 20 minutes with a few simple ingredients! This dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come true, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself. It's a simple, fool-proof recipe anyone can achieve!

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
20 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 572 kcal
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 6 ounces high-quality semi-sweet chocolate I used Ghirardelli
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks room temperature

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Prep the Ramekins- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Butter and lightly flour (4 or 6 ounce) ramekins and arrange them on a baking sheet.
  2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter- Combine the butter and chocolate in a double boiler over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth. Alternatively, place them in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high, stirring every 15 seconds, until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Prepare the Egg Mixture- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, powdered sugar, and salt. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is thick, pale yellow, and slightly foamy (about 5 minutes).
  4. Combine the Mixtures- Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract into the egg mixture. Sift in the flour and fold until just combined; do not over-mix.
  5. Fill the Ramekins- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. You can use 3-6 ramekins, depending on their size. Larger ramekins will make less lava, but larger portions, and smaller ramekins will make slightly smaller and more lava cakes. 
  6. Bake—Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the edges of the cakes are set, but the centers still jiggle slightly when gently shaken. Do not overbake, or you won't get the molten lava center. These cook fast, so keep a close eye on them!
  7. Invert and Serve- Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1 minute. Place a small dessert plate over each ramekin, then carefully flip to invert the cake onto the plate. Let the ramekin sit for about 10 seconds before lifting it off to release the cake.
  8. Garnish and Enjoy- Dust with cacao powder or powdered sugar and add toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Serve immediately for that deliciously gooey lava center!
  9. Enjoy these rich and decadent treats while warm—each bite is a chocolate lover's dream!

Notes

  • Top Tips:
  • Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for a good brand of semi-sweet chocolate (like Ghirardelli). The quality of chocolate makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
  • Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature: Room temperature eggs and butter will blend better, giving you a smoother batter and ensuring the cakes bake evenly.
  • Watch the Bake Time Closely: Lava cakes only need 6–8 minutes. Bake just until the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly. Over-baking will solidify the center, losing the molten effect.
  • Prepare Ramekins Well: Butter and lightly flour each ramekin to prevent sticking. This makes it easy to invert the cakes onto plates without breaking.
  • Fold, Don’t Over-Mix: When combining the chocolate and egg mixtures, gently fold them together to avoid deflating the batter. This keeps the cakes light and airy with a perfectly gooey center.
  • Serve Immediately: These cakes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Prepare your toppings in advance so you can serve them while the centers are still molten.
  • Test Run: If serving to guests, consider a test bake to nail down your oven timing for the ideal gooey center.
  • These tips will help you achieve that picture-perfect lava cake with a rich, flowing center and a delicate crust every time!

Nutrition Information

Calories 572kcal (29%) Carbohydrates 36g (12%) Protein 8g (16%) Fat 44g (68%) Saturated Fat 26g (130%) Polyunsaturated Fat 2g Monounsaturated Fat 13g Trans Fat 1g Cholesterol 248mg (83%) Sodium 193mg (8%) Potassium 301mg (9%) Fiber 4g (16%) Sugar 23g (46%) Vitamin A 988IU (20%) Calcium 60mg (6%) Iron 4mg (22%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 572

% Daily Value*

Calories 572kcal 29%
Carbohydrates 36g 12%
Protein 8g 16%
Fat 44g 68%
Saturated Fat 26g 130%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g 12%
Monounsaturated Fat 13g 65%
Trans Fat 1g 50%
Cholesterol 248mg 83%
Sodium 193mg 8%
Potassium 301mg 6%
Fiber 4g 16%
Sugar 23g 46%
Vitamin A 988IU 20%
Calcium 60mg 6%
Iron 4mg 22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.