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Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

4.7 from 149 reviews

Indulge in the rich, gooey decadence of this classic Chocolate Lava Cake recipe. Featuring a molten chocolate center encased in a tender cake exterior, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat. Made with semi-sweet chocolate, butter, and a hint of vanilla, it combines a fudgy texture and intense chocolate flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 6 ounces semi-sweet baker’s chocolate bars, broken into pieces
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 whole eggs, room temperature
  • 5 egg yolks, room temperature
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cups all-purpose flour

Garnish

  • Powdered sugar for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chocolate Mixture: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter together until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder and vanilla extract to combine evenly.
  2. Mix the Eggs and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth, pale, and slightly thickened.
  3. Combine Chocolate and Egg Mixtures: Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to ensure thorough blending without cooking the eggs.
  4. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the chocolate-egg mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients in using a spatula until just combined to keep the batter light and smooth.
  5. Prepare Ramekins: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four individual ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the ramekins.
  6. Bake the Lava Cakes: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft and slightly jiggly.
  7. Serve: Remove from oven and let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1 minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert onto serving plates. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately for the best molten center experience.

Notes

  • Make sure eggs are at room temperature to achieve optimal texture.
  • Do not overbake to ensure the molten center remains gooey.
  • Greasing ramekins with butter and dusting with cocoa powder prevents sticking.
  • Serve immediately, as the molten center will begin to set once cooled.
  • Can be paired wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.

Keywords: Chocolate Lava Cake, Molten Chocolate Cake, Easy Chocolate Dessert, Semi-Sweet Chocolate Cake, Decadent Dessert