Chocolate lava cakes

Chocolate lava cakes are individual desserts with a rich, gooey molten center made from dark chocolate and butter. Easy to prepare, they're perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

27 Dec 2025
Cook time 18 min
Prep time 75 min

Ingredients:

1 cup dark chocolate
1 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
4 eggs
1/2 cup sugar

Chocolate lava cakes are a delectable dessert featuring a rich and gooey molten chocolate center. These individual-sized cakes are perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a luxurious treat. The recipe combines dark chocolate, butter, flour, eggs, and sugar to create a dessert that's both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease 6 ramekins or custard cups, and place them on a baking sheet.

2. Melt Chocolate and Butter:
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the butter to the bowl. Microwave on high in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until both the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt them over a double boiler on the stovetop, stirring constantly until smooth.

3. Combine Sugar and Eggs:
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes. An electric mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment will make this step easier.

4. Incorporate Melted Chocolate:
Gradually add the melted chocolate-butter mixture to the egg-sugar mixture, and mix until well combined.

5. Add Flour:
Sift the all-purpose flour into the bowl, folding it gently into the batter until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to over-mix at this stage.

6. Fill Ramekins:
Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins. Fill each ramekin about two-thirds full, as the cakes will rise during baking.

7. Bake:
Place the baking sheet with the filled ramekins in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges of the cakes are set but the centers are still slightly jiggly when gently shaken. Do not overbake - the centers should remain molten for the lava effect.

8. Cool Slightly:
Remove the ramekins from the oven and let them cool for about 1 minute. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cakes, then carefully invert each ramekin onto a dessert plate.

9. Serve:
Serve the chocolate lava cakes immediately while warm to enjoy the molten center. Optionally, you can garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or some fresh berries.

Chocolate lava cakes are an impressive and decadent dessert that is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few key ingredients and precise baking, you can create a luscious treat that delights with its molten chocolate center. Whether for a special occasion or a self-indulgent evening, these cakes are sure to please.

Chocolate lava cakes FAQ:

What is the baking time for chocolate lava cakes?

Bake the chocolate lava cakes for 12-14 minutes at 425°F (220°C). The edges should be set while the centers remain slightly jiggly for that molten effect.

How do I know when the lava cakes are done?

Check that the edges are firm but the center is still slightly jiggly when you gently shake the ramekin. Avoid overbaking to ensure the molten center.

Can I substitute ingredients in chocolate lava cakes?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate with semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter taste. However, other ingredients like eggs or flour may not have suitable substitutes without altering the texture.

How should I store leftover chocolate lava cakes?

Store any leftover lava cakes in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to return some molten texture.

What size ramekins should I use for this recipe?

Use 6 ramekins or custard cups that are about 4 ounces each. This size ensures the batter rises properly and creates the desired lava effect.

Tips:

- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture.

- Ensure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking.

- Grease the ramekins thoroughly to prevent the cakes from sticking.

- Do not overbake; the center should remain soft and molten.

- Serve immediately after baking for the best lava effect.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 410kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 4.37g
Sugar 27g
Fat 50g

Chocolate lava cakes