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Homemade Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe photo

Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

This Chocolate Lava Cake is a showstopper! With a rich, molten center and a perfectly baked exterior, it’s the ultimate indulgent dessert.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time14 minutes
Total Time29 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chocolate, Decadent, Easy, Indulgent
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • ½ cup salted butter (or unsalted butter + ¼ tsp salt)
  • 4 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate (roughly chopped, preferably Ghirardelli)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 whole eggs (at room temperature)
  • 2 egg yolks (at room temperature)
  • cup flour
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting)
  • powdered sugar (for dusting the cakes)
  • fresh berries (for garnish)
  • vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Instructions

Method:

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect molten center.
  • Step 2: Grease each custard cup or ramekin generously with butter and dust with flour. This ensures that the cakes will release easily once baked.
  • Step 3: In a double boiler, combine the salted butter and chopped chocolate. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • Step 4: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, whole eggs, and egg yolks until well combined and slightly frothy.
  • Step 5: Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to scramble the eggs.
  • Step 6: Sift in the ⅓ cup of flour and fold gently until just combined. The batter should be smooth and glossy.
  • Step 7: Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about ¾ full. This ensures there’s enough room for the lava to flow.
  • Step 8: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be firm, but the center will look soft. Do not overbake; the magic happens in those last few minutes.
  • Step 9: Once out of the oven, let the cakes rest for 1 minute. This will help them set slightly and make them easier to plate.
  • Step 10: Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy immediately while the center is still warm and gooey!

Equipment

  • Custard cups or ramekins
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Double Boiler
  • Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Notes

  • Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
  • Prepare the batter a few hours ahead of time for convenience.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.