Imagine cutting into a decadent chocolate cake and watching a river of molten chocolate cascade onto your plate, creating a moment of pure culinary bliss. Our Easy Chocolate Lava Cakes are not just a dessert – they're an experience that transforms an ordinary evening into an extraordinary indulgence. With just 22 minutes between you and chocolate paradise, these French-inspired individual cakes are guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your deepest chocolate cravings.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare your equipment: Gather 4 individual ramekins (6-8 oz size) and preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Generously butter the inside of each ramekin and dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
- Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Ensure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Add unsalted butter and chocolate chips to the bowl, stirring gently until completely melted and smooth.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and slightly frothy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine and prevent scrambling. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet for easy handling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should look slightly jiggly and underdone.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 1 minute. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate, allowing the cake to release.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving. Serve immediately while the center remains warm and molten.
Tips
- Temperature is crucial: Ensure your oven is precisely preheated to 425°F for the perfect lava cake texture.
- Don't overmix: Gently fold the flour into the batter to maintain the delicate, molten center.
- Timing is everything: Watch the cakes closely during baking. The edges should be set, but the center should look slightly underdone.
- Butter and cocoa powder your ramekins generously to ensure easy cake release.
- Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the signature flowing chocolate center.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the richest, most luxurious flavor.
- If you don't have ramekins, you can use oven-safe coffee mugs or small ceramic dishes as alternatives.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 529kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
