Description

Indulge in a rich, chocolatey treat with a molten center that melts in your mouth. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this chocolate lava cake is surprisingly simple to make, yet impressively decadent. With a tender baked exterior and a warm, gooey center, it’s a dessert that feels luxurious without any fuss. Serve it with ice cream, berries, or whipped cream to elevate the experience. This recipe is my go-to when I want a dessert that’s both indulgent and effortlessly impressive.

Ingredients

Scale

4 oz (115g) high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1 tsp espresso powder or 1 tbsp liqueur

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter and lightly dust ramekins with cocoa powder.
Melt chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth.
Whisk eggs, yolks, sugar, and vanilla until pale and frothy.
Gently fold melted chocolate into egg mixture, then fold in flour and a pinch of salt. Avoid overmixing.
Divide batter into ramekins and bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles.
Let cool briefly, then run a knife around edges and invert onto plates. Serve warm with optional sides.

Notes

For extra flavor, add espresso powder or liqueur.
Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa for a fancy touch.
Ensure chocolate is smooth before mixing with eggs to avoid lumps.
Don’t overbake—the center should remain molten.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 380
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 145mg