Description
This rich and decadent Chocolate Lava Cake features a gooey, molten chocolate center encased in a tender, cake-like exterior. Perfectly portioned in individual ramekins, this dessert is quick to prepare and baked to perfection, making it an impressive yet simple treat for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- ½ cup unsalted butter (113g)
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped (168g)
Batter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare Ramekins: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Butter and lightly flour six 4- to 5-ounce ramekins. Place them on a baking sheet to make handling easier during baking.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Combine unsalted butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate using a double boiler over low heat, stirring until smooth and melted. Alternatively, melt them in a microwave-safe bowl on high, stirring every 30 seconds to avoid burning. Whisk to ensure a smooth chocolate mixture.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes thick and pale yellow, indicating that it has aerated properly.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture and the flour into the beaten eggs and sugar until well incorporated, taking care not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Fill Ramekins: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each nearly to the top.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes. The edges should be set and firm, while the center remains soft and jiggly, which creates the molten lava effect.
- Cool and Unmold: Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1 minute. Then place a small dessert plate over each ramekin, carefully invert to release the cake onto the plate. Let stand for about 10 seconds before removing the ramekins.
- Garnish and Serve: Sift powdered sugar over the tops of the cakes and optionally garnish with fresh berries. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, gooey center.
Notes
- Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overbake; the molten center is what makes this dessert special.
- Ramekins should be well buttered and floured to facilitate easy unmolding.
- You can prepare batter ahead of time and refrigerate; bring back to room temperature before baking.
- Serving with fresh berries and dusted powdered sugar adds a nice balance to the richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French