Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe: A Divine Dessert Delight
Introduction: Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe, also known as molten chocolate cake, is a beloved dessert renowned for its rich, gooey center that oozes out when you cut i
nto it.
This indulgent treat is surprisingly easy to make at home and is sure to impress your guests with its irresistible combination of warm, velvety chocolate and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a decadent dessert, this chocolate lava cake recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more.
Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (115g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries for serving
Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four 4-ounce ramekins or custard cups with butter or cooking spray and place them on a baking sheet.
- Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler), melt the chopped chocolate and unsalted butter together, stirring occasionally, until smooth and well combined. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave in short 20-30 second bursts, stirring between each interval until melted.
- Prepare the Batter: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy. Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly, until smooth and glossy.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the chocolate mixture and gently fold it in with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fill the Ramekins: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Bake the Lava Cakes: Place the baking sheet with the filled ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still jiggle slightly. The tops should look set and slightly cracked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the lava cakes from the oven and let them cool in the ramekins for 1-2 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cake to loosen them from the ramekins. Place a plate upside down over each ramekin, then quickly invert the cakes onto the plates. Tap the bottoms of the ramekins to release the cakes. Serve immediately, dusted with powdered sugar or cocoa powder, and garnished with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries, if desired.
Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe Tips:
- Be sure not to overbake the lava cakes, as you want the centers to remain molten and gooey. The edges should be set but the centers should still be soft and slightly jiggly.
- You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it in the ramekins until ready to bake. Just be sure to let the ramekins come to room temperature before baking.
- For an extra decadent touch, you can add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder or a splash of liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Kahlua) to the batter for added depth of flavor.
Conclusion: This Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe is the ultimate dessert indulgence, perfect for any special occasion or simply when you’re craving a luxurious treat. With its rich, molten center and intense chocolate flavor, it’s sure to impress even the most discerning chocolate lover. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience chocolate bliss with this decadent dessert delight!
