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An assortment of delicious desserts arranged beautifully on a table

Ultimate Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes

Indulge in these rich and decadent chocolate lava cakes, featuring a warm, gooey center and a crisp exterior. Perfect for a special dessert, they are surprisingly easy to make and sure to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces good quality bittersweet chocolate
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional)
  • powdered sugar
  • fresh raspberries
  • vanilla ice cream

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Ramekins (4-ounce)
  • Baking sheet
  • Heatproof bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Sifter

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously butter four 4-ounce ramekins.
  2. Dust the ramekins with cocoa powder or flour, tapping out excess, then place them on a baking sheet.
Making the Batter
  1. Melt the chopped bittersweet chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl until smooth, then cool slightly.
  2. Whisk eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar in a separate bowl for 1-2 minutes until light and frothy.
  3. Gradually whisk the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
  4. Sift flour and salt over the mixture, then gently fold until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Baking and Serving
  1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
  2. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still jiggles.
  3. Cool for 1-2 minutes, then invert cakes onto plates and optionally dust with powdered sugar.
  4. Serve immediately with fresh raspberries or vanilla ice cream if desired.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality chocolate as it significantly impacts the flavor. Do not overbake, as the center should remain gooey. If you don't have ramekins, you can use a muffin tin with paper liners, adjusting baking time as needed.