Chocolate Lava Cakes
Chocolate Lava Cakes are a decadent dessert featuring a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a tender, cake-like exterior. Quick to prepare and made with simple, high-quality ingredients, these individual cakes offer an indulgent chocolate experience perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to personal treats.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 22-24 minutes
- Yield: 4 individual cakes 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with flour substitution)
Main Ingredients
- 4 ounces good-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free variation)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare the Ramekins: Generously butter your ramekins and dust them lightly with cocoa powder to help the cakes release smoothly and add a subtle chocolate coating.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, gently melt the chocolate and butter together over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring often until silky and smooth.
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until pale and slightly thickened to create a light base for the chocolate mix.
- Combine Mixtures and Add Flour: Fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture carefully. Then sift and gently incorporate the flour, preserving as much air as possible for tender cakes.
- Fill Ramekins and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-14 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft and jiggly.
- Serve Immediately: Allow cakes to cool for a minute, then invert each ramekin onto a plate and gently tap to release the molten center. Enjoy instantly.
Notes
- Choose high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cacao for deep flavor.
- Do not overbake to maintain a molten center; check a minute or two early as oven temperatures vary.
- Let cakes rest briefly after baking to hold shape while preserving the soft center.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for better batter consistency and texture.
- Ensure ramekins are properly greased and dusted to prevent sticking and ensure perfect presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lava cake (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Chocolate Lava Cake, Molten Chocolate Cake, Dessert, Quick Chocolate Cake, Individual Chocolate Cake, Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake