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Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: 14-Minute Magic

Chocolate Lava Cake

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Enjoy a restaurant-style chocolate lava cake at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for a special treat, this decadent dessert features a warm, gooey chocolate center. Get tips on achieving that perfect molten core every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Extra butter and cocoa powder for dusting ramekins

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Generously butter and dust four 6-ounce ramekins with cocoa powder. Tap out any excess.
  3. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together. Stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined and slightly lighter in color.
  5. Whisk in the vanilla extract and the slightly cooled chocolate mixture until everything is smooth and uniform.
  6. Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
  8. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft and jiggly. The exact time will depend on your oven.
  10. Let the cakes rest in the ramekins for 1 minute.
  11. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate. The lava cake should slide out easily.
  12. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a perfectly molten center, watch the cakes closely during baking. A slight jiggle in the center is what you’re looking for.
  • You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before dividing into ramekins and adjust baking time slightly if needed.
  • Experiment with different types of chocolate for varied flavor profiles.
  • Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

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