Description
A rich, indulgent dessert featuring a tender cake exterior and a warm, gooey molten chocolate center. This recipe is forgiving, fast, and uses simple ingredients for a professional-looking treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces (225g) high-quality dark chocolate (60% to 70% cocoa), chopped
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs + 2 egg yolks, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Butter and cocoa powder for greasing ramekins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously butter the inside of 6 standard 6-ounce ramekins and dust with cocoa powder, tapping out excess.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chopped chocolate and cubed butter. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir, then continue in 15-second intervals until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk eggs, egg yolks, and sugar vigorously for about 2 minutes until pale, thick, and aerated.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk gently to combine.
- Sift in flour and salt, then fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins, filling them about ¾ full.
- Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes. Edges should be set and puffed, but the center should still look soft and jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let sit for exactly 1 minute.
- Place a plate over each ramekin and invert swiftly to release the cake. Tap gently if needed.
- Serve immediately with ice cream, whipped cream, or powdered sugar.
Notes
Timing is critical; the center must remain jiggly. Do not use chocolate chips as they contain stabilizers that prevent the molten flow. For make-ahead, fill ramekins and chill for up to 2 hours, adding 2-3 minutes to baking time. Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 16
- Carbohydrates: 42
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 8
Keywords: chocolate lava cake, molten chocolate cake, fudge center, dessert recipe, easy baking, romantic dessert, individual cakes