Chocolate Lava Cake

Name: Chocolate Lava Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 oz bittersweet chocolate; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I love making Chocolate Lava Cake for special occasions because it's such an impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With a rich, gooey center that flows out when you cut into it, it never fails to delight both guests and myself alike. The combination of warm chocolate and buttery textures creates a truly decadent experience. Plus, with just a few ingredients, I can whip up this indulgent treat quickly, making it perfect for last-minute celebrations or a sweet treat after dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:01:28.269Z

One of my favorite things about Chocolate Lava Cake is how it impresses everyone with its molten center. I remember the first time I made it for friends; their eyes lit up as I cut into the cake, revealing the oozy chocolate inside. It’s such a simple yet dramatic way to serve dessert!

Over the years, I’ve played with the recipe, adjusting the baking time to achieve that perfect lava consistency. A tip I’ve learned is to slightly underbake the cakes; the hot oven will continue cooking them for a moment after you take them out, resulting in that desired gooeyness!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Mastering the Lava Cake Technique

Creating the perfect Chocolate Lava Cake relies heavily on timing and the right oven temperature. It's essential to bake them at the precise temperature of 425°F (220°C) to ensure that the edges become firm while the center stays molten. Over-baking is a common mistake—just 30 seconds can mean the difference between a flowing center and a fully cooked cake. When the edges appear firm and slightly puffed, it’s a good indication that they’re ready to come out.

Another crucial aspect is the mixing technique. When combining the flour and other ingredients, be cautious not to overmix. Gently folding ensures that the batter retains air, leading to a light texture. Avoid vigorous stirring, as it can deflate the mixture. This gentle approach contributes significantly to the creamy melt-in-your-mouth experience of the finished cake.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of chocolate is pivotal to the overall flavor of your Lava Cake. Using high-quality bittersweet chocolate enhances the richness and depth of flavor. If you prefer a slightly sweeter product, consider dark chocolate with a cacao percentage between 60-70%. This balance amplifies the chocolate's natural flavors without compromising the desirable gooey texture that makes this dessert so memorable.

Butter plays a dual role here, enriching the chocolate mixture and ensuring a silky-smooth texture. Opting for unsalted butter gives you more control over the final taste, allowing you to add just the right amount of salt to elevate the flavors. In a pinch, you can substitute with a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version, but ensure the brand you choose has a similar fat content to maintain the cake's structure.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dessert:

Ingredients

4 oz bittersweet chocolate
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chocolate Lava Cake:

Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Mix in the Sugar and Eggs

Stir in the powdered sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and egg yolks, mixing until smooth and creamy.

Add Flour and Vanilla

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Prep the Ramekins

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and lightly dust them with flour, shaking out any excess.

Fill Ramekins and Bake

Pour the chocolate mixture evenly into the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center remains soft.

Serve Warm

Remove from the oven and let them sit for 1 minute. Carefully invert onto plates and serve immediately, optionally with a scoop of ice cream or fresh berries.

Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Lava Cake with a warm cup of coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate mixture to enhance the richness of the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of elegance, consider serving your Chocolate Lava Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The contrasting temperatures create an enjoyable experience as the warm cake meets the cold ice cream. Adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can enhance the presentation and indulgence.

Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, pair wonderfully with this rich dessert. The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness of the chocolate, adding a refreshing balance that elevates each bite. You can even macerate the berries with a touch of sugar and lemon juice for an added flavor boost.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning for a celebration, you can prepare the batter in advance. Once mixed, pour it into the greased and floured ramekins, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply take them out of the fridge and add an extra minute or two to the baking time to ensure they cook through properly while still achieving that gooey center.

Leftover baked Lava Cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days. To revive their lusciously molten center, simply place them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving. Alternatively, they freeze well too! Just ensure they are cooled completely, and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking.

→ What if I don't have ramekins?

You can use a muffin tin instead, just adjust the baking time as necessary.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.

→ How do I know when the cakes are done?

The edges should be firm, but the center should still look soft and slightly jiggly. Trust the baking time but keep an eye on them!