Name: Decadent Chocolate Molten Lava Cake
Ingredients: 2 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more), chopped: The star ingredient that gives the cake its rich flavor. Using a premium dark chocolate is essential for depth and intensity in taste.; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing): The butter adds a luscious creaminess to the batter while also providing moisture and richness to the cake.; 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the cake and helps to achieve that beautiful crispy outer shell that contrasts well with the molten center.; 4 large eggs: Eggs are critical to binding the ingredients together while providing structure to the cake. They also contribute to the fluffy texture.; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, adding warmth and a hint of sweetness.; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Flour is the foundation of any cake, giving it support and structure, while still allowing for the gooey center to emerge.; 1 tsp salt: Salt elevates flavors and balances the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Description

Treat yourself to decadent chocolate molten lava cake—rich, gooey, and full of chocolatey goodness. The perfect indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more), chopped: The star ingredient that gives the cake its rich flavor. Using a premium dark chocolate is essential for depth and intensity in taste.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing): The butter adds a luscious creaminess to the batter while also providing moisture and richness to the cake.
1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the cake and helps to achieve that beautiful crispy outer shell that contrasts well with the molten center.
4 large eggs: Eggs are critical to binding the ingredients together while providing structure to the cake. They also contribute to the fluffy texture.
2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, adding warmth and a hint of sweetness.
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Flour is the foundation of any cake, giving it support and structure, while still allowing for the gooey center to emerge.
1 tsp salt: Salt elevates flavors and balances the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C): Make sure your oven is perfectly preheated, as this will ensure consistent baking.
Grease 4-6 ramekins (or small cups): Use a bit of unsalted butter to grease the ramekins thoroughly, which will help in easily releasing the cakes once they’re done baking.
Melt the chocolate and butter together in a double boiler: Place the chopped dark chocolate and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a heat-proof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
In a bowl, whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla together: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 4 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, roughly 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the flour and salt until just combined: Gently fold in 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Be careful not to overmix, as this can create a tough texture.
Mix in the melted chocolate: Carefully fold the melted chocolate mixture into the batter until incorporated. This creamy mixture will create the rich flavor you’re aiming for.
Pour the batter into the prepared ramekins: Fill each ramekin about 3/4 full with the batter. Leave some space for the cakes to rise.
Bake for 12-15 minutes: Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake until the edges are firm but the centers are still slightly jiggly—about 12 to 15 minutes.
Cool for 1 minute, then invert onto plates: Let the cakes cool for about one minute, then carefully flip the ramekins onto serving plates. Tap gently to release the cake.