Description

A foolproof, rich chocolate lava cake made in just one bowl with simple pantry ingredients. Features a warm, molten center that flows when cut, best served with vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale

6 ounces (170g) dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, room temperature or melted
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 egg yolks
2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter and sugar for greasing ramekins
Cocoa powder for dusting (optional)
Vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter the inside of 4-6 ramekins thoroughly and dust with sugar. Place on a baking sheet.
Break chocolate into chunks and combine with butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler. Let cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, egg yolks, and sugar vigorously for about one minute until pale and slightly thickened.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
Sift in flour and salt, then gently fold until no dry streaks remain. The batter should be thick and glossy.
Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins, filling them about 3/4 full.
Bake for 12-14 minutes. Edges should be set but the center should still look soft and jiggly.
Remove from oven and let sit for 1 minute. Run a knife around the edge and invert onto plates.
Serve immediately topped with vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Do not overbake; the center must remain jiggly. Ingredients should be at room temperature. Can be made ahead by refrigerating filled ramekins for up to 24 hours (add 2-3 minutes to bake time). Microwave option: 60-90 seconds on high for 1 large ramekin.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cake
Calories: 450
Sugar: 35
Sodium: 120
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 16
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 2
Protein: 8

Keywords: chocolate lava cake, molten chocolate cake, easy dessert, one bowl recipe, rich chocolate dessert, date night dessert