Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
Decadent individual chocolate cakes with a warm, gooey center that flows when cut. These restaurant-quality lava cakes are surprisingly easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
20m
4
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Ingredients
- 6 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Butter and cocoa powder for ramekins
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- 1
Prepare ramekins
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter four 6-oz ramekins and dust with cocoa powder, tapping out excess.
- 2
Melt chocolate
Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler or microwave until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- 3
Whisk eggs
In a bowl, whisk together whole eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick and pale.
- 4
Combine mixtures
Whisk chocolate mixture into egg mixture. Quickly fold in flour and salt until just combined.
- 5
Fill ramekins
Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins. At this point, you can refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- 6
Bake
Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are firm but centers jiggle when shaken.
- 7
Serve immediately
Let stand for 1 minute, then invert onto plates. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream.
Chef's Tips
Follow the recipe steps carefully for best results. Fresh ingredients make all the difference!
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about making this molten chocolate lava cake
How long does it take to make Molten Chocolate Lava Cake?
This recipe takes 34 minutes total time, including 20 minutes prep time and 14 minutes cooking time.
How many servings does this Molten Chocolate Lava Cake recipe make?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What is the difficulty level of this Molten Chocolate Lava Cake recipe?
This recipe is rated as Hard difficulty level, making it best for experienced cooks.
Can I make substitutions in this Molten Chocolate Lava Cake recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Can I make this molten chocolate lava cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this molten chocolate lava cake up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftover molten chocolate lava cake?
Store leftover molten chocolate lava cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
What side dishes go well with molten chocolate lava cake?
This molten chocolate lava cake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.
Can I freeze molten chocolate lava cake?
Yes, this molten chocolate lava cake freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.