Save Decadent individual chocolate cakes with a warm, gooey molten center — perfect for an elegant dessert or a comforting treat.
This recipe always impresses my guests and is a true crowd-pleaser at dinner parties.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Mixture: 120 g (4.25 oz) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, roughly chopped, 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- Batter: 2 large eggs, 2 large egg yolks, 90 g (scant 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, Fresh berries or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Grease six 6-oz ramekins with butter and lightly dust with flour, tapping out the excess.
- Step 2:
- In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 3:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until pale and thick, about 2 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until combined.
- Step 5:
- Sift in the flour and salt, and fold gently until just incorporated do not overmix.
- Step 6:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place ramekins on a baking sheet.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 1113 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft and slightly jiggly.
- Step 8:
- Let rest for 1 minute. Run a thin knife around the edges, invert onto plates, and serve immediately. Dust with powdered sugar and add berries or ice cream if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these rich molten cakes, making dessert time extra special.
Notes
For a deeper chocolate flavor, use high-quality chocolate 70% cocoa or higher. Add a pinch of espresso powder or a splash of orange liqueur for a twist. Serve with fresh mint, whipped cream, or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Required Tools
6 ramekins (6 oz each), Heatproof mixing bowls, Whisk, Rubber spatula, Baking sheet
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (butter), and gluten (wheat flour). May contain traces of nuts if chocolate is processed in facilities handling nuts. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save
Enjoy your baking with this indulgent and elegant dessert that never fails to delight.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chocolate works best?
High-quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher enhances the rich flavor and gooey texture.
- → How can I tell when the lava cakes are done?
The edges should be set while the centers remain soft and slightly jiggly, ensuring the molten core stays warm.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Yes, prepare the batter and refrigerate in ramekins before baking; just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- → What serving suggestions complement these cakes?
Dust with powdered sugar and serve alongside fresh berries or vanilla ice cream for contrast and added flavor.
- → Are there optional flavor variations?
Try adding espresso powder or a splash of orange liqueur to the batter for a sophisticated twist on the classic flavor.