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Chocolate Lava Cakes

Chocolate Lava Cakes

Chocolate Lava Cakes offer a rich, gooey dessert with a molten chocolate center and a tender baked outer cake. This quick and easy recipe uses simple ingredients to create an elegant, decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Mixture

  • 4 oz bittersweet chocolate, high-quality
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter

Batter

  • 2 whole eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (32g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ramekins: Generously butter your ramekins and lightly dust them with cocoa powder to create a non-stick layer that helps the cakes release smoothly while preserving the molten center.
  2. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water or using short microwave bursts, melt the bittersweet chocolate and butter together until silky and smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened, incorporating air to lend a delicate lift to the cakes.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Slowly fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, combining carefully to avoid deflating the batter. Then sift in the flour and salt gently, folding until just incorporated. Finally, add the vanilla extract and fold it in.
  5. Fill and Chill: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the center set before baking.
  6. Bake Until Edges Set: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the ramekins for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are firm and set, but the center remains soft and molten.
  7. Serve Immediately: Let the cakes rest for one minute after baking, then carefully invert them onto plates. Serve warm to enjoy the luscious molten chocolate center.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs to achieve a smoother batter texture.
  • Do not overbake; timing is crucial to retain the molten center.
  • Prepare ramekins thoroughly with butter and cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
  • Choose high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor.
  • Chilling the batter before baking helps maintain the contrast between the crust and molten core.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chocolate Lava Cake, Molten Chocolate Cake, Gooey Chocolate Dessert, Quick Chocolate Dessert, Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake