Molten Lava Cake
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate dessert—Molten Lava Cake! This rich and decadent treat features a delicate, cake-like shell with a warm, gooey chocolate center that flows with every bite. Made with simple ingredients like dark chocolate, butter, eggs, and sugar, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.Bake these restaurant-quality lava cakes in ramekins or muffin tins, or try alternative methods using an air fryer, Instant Pot, or microwave. Want a healthier twist? Enjoy keto, gluten-free, and vegan variations without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or anytime you crave chocolate heaven, this dessert is best served warm with ice cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Equipment
- Ramekins (Four 6-ounce size) – For baking the perfect individual lava cakes.
- Mixing Bowls – To whisk the ingredients and melt the chocolate.
- Whisk – For mixing eggs, sugar, and chocolate smoothly.
- Spatula – For gently folding in the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure precise ingredient amounts
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer – For evenly incorporating flour without lumps.
- Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl – To melt the chocolate and butter.
- Baking Sheet – To place ramekins on for stability in the oven.
- Oven Mitts – For safe handling of hot ramekins.
- Knife or Small Offset Spatula – To loosen cakes from the ramekins before unmolding.
- 💡 Optional Equipment:
- Air Fryer, Instant Pot, or Microwave – If using an alternative baking method.
- Pastry Brush – For greasing ramekins with butter.
- Cooling Rack – To briefly rest cakes before unmolding.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- 4 ounces dark chocolate 70% cocoa or higher, chopped
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Greasing and Serving
- Butter and cocoa powder for greasing ramekins
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream optional but highly recommended!
- Fresh berries optional, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ramekins
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins generously with butter and lightly dust them with cocoa powder. This step ensures your cakes release easily after baking.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
- In a heatproof bowl, combine butter and chopped chocolate. Melt them together using a double boiler method (placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water) or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually fold in the melted chocolate mixture.
Step 4: Add the Flour
- Gently sift in the flour, folding it into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the center deliciously molten!
Step 5: Fill the Ramekins
- Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about ¾ of the way full.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be firm and set, but the center should still look slightly soft.
Step 7: Let Them Rest & Unmold
- Remove the ramekins from the oven and let them sit for 1 minute. Then, gently run a knife along the edges and invert each cake onto a plate.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
- Dust with powdered sugar, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and garnish with fresh berries for the ultimate presentation. Serve immediately while the center is still molten and gooey!
Notes
Make-Ahead
Want to save time? Prepare the batter a few hours in advance, fill the ramekins, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before popping them in the oven.Storage
- Leftovers? While Molten Lava Cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm up in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, but note that the lava effect may not be as strong as freshly baked ones.