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Ultimate Molten Lava Cake Recipe

4.9 from 123 reviews

This Ultimate Molten Lava Cake features a rich, gooey center of bittersweet chocolate enveloped in a tender, moist cake exterior. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, this indulgent dessert is quick to prepare and sure to impress when served warm with a scoop of ice cream or fresh berries.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 oz bittersweet chocolate
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins thoroughly with butter and evenly dust them with cocoa powder to prevent sticking and enhance chocolate flavor.
  2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: Combine the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short, 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each burst until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
  3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, whole eggs, and egg yolks until the mixture is light, fluffy, and slightly pale in color, indicating aeration.
  4. Combine Mixtures and Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the whisked eggs and sugar. Sift the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt into the combined mixture, folding carefully until just incorporated to avoid deflating the batter.
  5. Fill Ramekins and Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the four prepared ramekins, filling them almost to the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the outer edges are set and firm but the center is still soft and jiggly.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool for one minute. Invert each ramekin onto a serving plate and gently lift to release the cake. Serve immediately, ideally paired with ice cream or fresh berries to complement the rich chocolate.

Notes

  • Do not overbake to ensure the center remains molten and gooey.
  • If you don’t have ramekins, use any small, oven-safe dishes that hold heat well.
  • Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for best flavor.
  • Let the cakes cool briefly before serving to avoid burns from the molten center.
  • The batter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated briefly, but bake just before serving for optimal texture.

Keywords: molten lava cake, chocolate dessert, chocolate lava cake, quick dessert, individual cakes, rich chocolate cake