Description
Rich chocolate lava cakes melt hearts with their gooey center and elegant presentation. Passionate bakers discover a simple dessert that impresses guests and satisfies chocolate cravings in minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 oz semisweet chocolate chips
- 8 tbsps unsalted butter (sliced, with additional for greasing the ramekins)
- 2 large whole eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsps all-purpose flour (with additional for dusting the ramekins)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare four ramekins by generously coating the interior with unsalted butter, then lightly dust with all-purpose flour, tapping out any excess to create a non-stick surface.
- Create a double boiler by placing a mixing bowl over a saucepan with simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Melt semisweet chocolate chips and butter together, stirring consistently until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together whole eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on high speed for 5 minutes until it becomes pale and thick, creating a light, voluminous texture.
- Carefully fold the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, incorporating vanilla extract. Gently add all-purpose flour, mixing until the batter becomes uniform and no flour streaks remain.
- Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins. Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F for 10-12 minutes, watching for a set exterior with a slightly jiggly center – this ensures the signature molten interior.
- After removing from the oven, let the cakes rest for 1 minute. Run a small knife around the edges to loosen, then carefully invert onto serving plates. Optionally dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately while warm and oozing with chocolate.
Notes
- Butter and flour the ramekins generously to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
- Use high-quality semisweet chocolate for a rich, decadent flavor that melts smoothly.
- Beat egg mixture thoroughly until light and fluffy to create a delicate, airy texture in the lava cakes.
- Check baking time carefully to maintain the signature molten center without overcooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 440 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 115 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg