Go Back
Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

Easy Chocolate Lava Cake

This decadent chocolate lava cake recipe creates individual molten desserts with rich, gooey centers that flow like lava when cut. Ready in just 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, these restaurant-quality chocolate cakes are perfect for special occasions or impressive last-minute treats.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 individual cakes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 383

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter 113g
  • 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate chopped, high-quality like Ghirardelli
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks room temperature
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar 50g
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour do not pack
For Serving (Optional)
  • powdered sugar for dusting
  • fresh berries for garnish
  • vanilla ice cream for serving

Equipment

  • 6 ramekins (4-5 ounce)
  • Baking sheet
  • Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Generously butter six 4-5 ounce ramekins and lightly dust with flour, tapping out excess. Place ramekins on a baking sheet.
  2. Melt chocolate mixture: Combine butter and chopped chocolate in a double boiler and melt over low heat, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, place in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Prepare egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until mixture becomes thick and pale yellow in color.
  4. Combine ingredients: Add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and gently fold together. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fill and bake: Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until the sides are firm and set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  6. Cool and unmold: Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for exactly 1 minute. Place a small dessert plate over each ramekin and carefully invert. Let stand 10 seconds, then gently lift off the ramekin. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with berries if desired. Serve immediately while the center is still molten.

Notes

  • Flour measurement tip: Don't pack flour into the measuring spoon. Fluff it first, then sprinkle into the spoon for accurate measurement.
  • Timing is crucial: Watch closely during baking. The difference between perfect molten centers and overcooked cakes is just 1-2 minutes.
  • Room temperature eggs: If eggs are cold, place them in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes before using.
  • Make-ahead option: Fill ramekins and refrigerate covered for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before baking.
  • No ramekins? Use a muffin tin instead, but reduce baking time to 5-6 minutes.