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Foolproof Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe for a Gooey Center

Close-up of a perfectly baked chocolate lava cake with molten chocolate oozing out onto a white plate.

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Make this easy chocolate lava cake for a fast, indulgent dessert. You get crisp edges and a silky molten center every time. It is perfect for date nights or when you need a bakery-style dessert without stress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 4 ounces unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter and cocoa powder for dusting ramekins

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter four 6-ounce ramekins generously. Dust the buttered insides with cocoa powder, tapping out any excess. Place the prepared ramekins on a baking sheet.
  2. Combine the chopped chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (or use a microwave in 30-second intervals). Stir until the mixture is completely smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened. This takes about two minutes.
  4. Gently whisk the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.
  5. Whisk in the flour and salt until no streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the four prepared ramekins.
  7. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center should still look soft and jiggly. This timing is key for a molten center.
  8. Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for exactly one minute.
  9. Carefully run a thin knife around the edge of each cake. Invert each cake onto a serving plate. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Serve this rich chocolate indulgence warm with vanilla ice cream or fresh raspberries for the best experience.
  • If you are making these ahead of time, you can refrigerate the filled ramekins for up to 24 hours. Add 2-3 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
  • For a Nutella lava cake alternative, substitute 2 tablespoons of the chocolate with 2 tablespoons of Nutella during the melting step.

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