Imagine cracking into a warm, decadent chocolate cake and watching rivers of rich, velvety chocolate ooze out onto your plate - that's the magic of a perfect chocolate lava cake! This French-inspired dessert is not just a treat; it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary moment into a spectacular chocolate celebration. In just 27 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert that will have your guests swooning and asking for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 27 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Generously grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust lightly with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
- Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Ensure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Add unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips to the bowl. Melt slowly, stirring occasionally until smooth and completely combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until the mixture becomes light and slightly frothy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the eggs.
- Sift in the flour and vanilla extract, folding gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should look slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 1 minute. Run a knife around the edges to loosen.
- Carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate. Let sit for 10-15 seconds before lifting the ramekin.
- Serve immediately, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your oven is precisely preheated to 425°F for the perfect lava cake texture.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to maintain the light, airy texture of your batter.
- Timing Matters: Watch your baking time closely - 10-12 minutes is the sweet spot for that molten center.
- Ramekin Prep: Generously butter and dust ramekins with cocoa powder to ensure easy release.
- Serve Immediately: Lava cakes are best enjoyed right out of the oven when the chocolate is still gloriously melted.
- Optional Elegance: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 541kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 7g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 240mg
