If you’re a fan of chocolate and love desserts with a surprise center, then chocolate lava cake is a dream come true. Also known as molten chocolate cake, this indulgent dessert is a perfect combination of a fluffy cake exterior and a rich, gooey, melted chocolate center. Whether you're making it for a romantic dinner, a party, or just a self-love treat, this lava cake recipe is easy, satisfying, and incredibly delicious.
In this guide, you'll learn how to make the perfect lava cake step-by-step — with helpful tips, ingredients, and serving ideas.
---
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make – only 20 minutes start to finish.
- Simple ingredients – no fancy tools or rare ingredients.
- Restaurant quality – looks and tastes professional.
- Rich and gooey – perfect molten center every time.
---
Ingredients (Makes 4 small cakes)
- 100g dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
- 100g unsalted butter
- 2 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup (50g) white sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Cocoa powder or butter (to grease ramekins)
---
Equipment You’ll Need:
- 4 ramekins (or muffin tins)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Saucepan (for melting)
- Baking tray
---
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ramekins
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F). Grease your ramekins with butter and lightly dust them with cocoa powder. This helps the cakes release easily after baking.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (or in a microwave), melt the dark chocolate and butter together. Stir occasionally until smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and slightly frothy. This takes around 3–5 minutes. You can use a hand mixer for better volume.
Step 4: Combine Chocolate and Eggs
Slowly pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture while whisking. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Add Flour and Salt
Sift in the flour and add a pinch of salt. Gently fold the mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix — just fold until the flour disappears.
Step 6: Fill the Ramekins
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking tray.
---
Step 7: Bake
Bake the lava cakes in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. The edges should be firm, but the center should still look slightly soft and jiggly. Be careful not to overbake — or the inside will cook through and you’ll lose the molten effect!
---
Step 8: Serve Immediately
Let the cakes sit for 1–2 minutes after baking. Run a knife around the edge to loosen them, then carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate.
Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate syrup, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.
---
Tips for Perfect Lava Cake
- Use good quality chocolate – since this is the main flavor.
- Don’t overbake – 10–12 minutes is enough.
- Make ahead – You can refrigerate the batter in ramekins and bake when needed.
- Add flavor – A little espresso powder or orange zest can elevate the taste.
- No ramekins? – Use muffin tins or even oven-safe mugs.
---
Variations You Can Try
- Peanut Butter Lava Cake – Add a teaspoon of peanut butter in the center before baking.
- Nutella Lava Cake – Drop a spoonful of Nutella inside for a hazelnut twist.
- Spiced Lava Cake – Add cinnamon or chili powder for a warm kick.
White Chocolate Lava Cake – Use white chocolate and serve with raspberry sauce.
---
Storage & Reheating
While best served fresh, you can refrigerate leftover cakes (uncooked batter) for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake again at 200°C for 10 minutes. Baked leftovers can be microwaved for 15–20 seconds, though the lava center may be less runny.
---
Final Thoughts
Chocolate lava cake is a classic, elegant dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With its soft cake shell and melted chocolate center, it’s a dessert that impresses every time. Pair it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the gooey goodness!