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dessertchocolatebaking

Chocolate Lava Cake

Individual molten chocolate cakes with a gooey, flowing center. An impressive dessert that's surprisingly easy.

Prep15 min
Cook14 min
Servings4

Ingredients

  • 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 whole eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Butter and cocoa powder for ramekins
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter four 6-oz ramekins and dust with cocoa powder. Place on a baking sheet.
  2. Melt chocolate and butter together in a microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between) or over a double boiler. Stir until completely smooth.
  3. Whisk in the powdered sugar until well blended. Then whisk in the whole eggs and egg yolks.
  4. Fold in the flour gently until just combined — don't overmix.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the ramekins.
  6. Bake for exactly 12–14 minutes. The edges should be firm but the center will be soft.
  7. Let cool for 1 minute, then run a knife around the edges. Invert each ramekin onto a plate.
  8. Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips

  • Timing is everything — even 1 minute too long in the oven will set the center. Do a test run to calibrate your oven.
  • You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate in the ramekins. Add 2 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
  • Use high-quality chocolate (at least 60% cacao) for the richest flavor.