Decadent Dark Chocolate Lava

Decadent, rich dark chocolate lava cakes with a molten cocoa center&perfect for cozy evenings and sweet home desserts.

I enjoy making these lava cakes whenever I want an indulgent dessert that feels homemade yet special.

Ingredients

• Chocolate Base: 100 g (3.5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) chopped, 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter plus extra for greasing, 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• Batter: 2 large eggs, 2 large egg yolks, 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 40 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• For Serving (optional): Powdered sugar for dusting, Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, Fresh berries

Instructions

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

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Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Generously butter four 6-oz (180 ml) ramekins and dust with cocoa powder, tapping out excess.

Step 2:

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter together over a saucepan of barely simmering water (double boiler method), stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and pale.

Step 4:

Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.

Step 5:

Sift the flour and salt over the batter and fold in until smooth and glossy.

Step 6:

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins.

Step 7:

Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 11 13 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Do not overbake.

Step 8:

Let cakes cool for 1 minute, then run a thin knife around the edges and invert onto serving plates.

Step 9:

Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

Check price on Amazon

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

Check price on Amazon

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My family loves sharing these lava cakes on chilly evenings; the gooey center always brings smiles to everyone.

Tips for Perfect Lava Cakes

Press a few chocolate chips into the center for an extra gooey surprise. Make sure to grease ramekins well for easy removal.

Gluten-Free Variation

Substitute gluten-free flour to prepare a gluten-free version without sacrificing texture or taste.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon for a perfect contrast.

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Organize kitchen cleaning supplies and cooking essentials on the wall to keep prep areas tidy and accessible.

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These lava cakes are a wonderful quick dessert that impresses every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chocolate is best for these lava cakes?

High-quality dark chocolate with around 70% cocoa content ensures a rich, intense flavor and smooth texture.

→ How do I achieve the molten center?

The key is baking just long enough so the edges are set but the center remains soft and gooey, typically 11–13 minutes.

→ Can I prepare the batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, ensuring fresher molten centers when cooked.

→ What’s the purpose of dusting ramekins with cocoa powder?

Dusting with cocoa powder prevents sticking and adds a subtle chocolate flavor to the exterior of the cakes.

→ Are there any good serving suggestions?

Serving these cakes with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries balances the intense chocolate flavor and adds refreshing contrast.

→ Can I substitute flour for a gluten-free option?

Yes, gluten-free flour blends can be used to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing texture.