Molten lava cake is a small chocolate cake baked in individual ramekins, so the outside sets while the middle stays soft and gooey. The batter uses semi-sweet chocolate, butter, eggs and just a little flour, and it bakes in only 12 to 14 minutes. Turn each cake out onto a plate and serve straight away with vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

To make molten lava cakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 ounces (115g) semi-sweet chocolate
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Recipe:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins and dust them with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter together using a microwave or double boiler. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until frothy. Gradually fold in the melted chocolate mixture.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fill the Ramekins: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full.
Bake: Place the ramekins on a baking tray and bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will remain soft.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cakes to cool for 1-2 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert onto serving plates. Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 20g
Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 50mg

Tips for Success:

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavour.
Don’t overbake; the gooey center is the hallmark of molten lava cake.
You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before baking.

Enjoy your homemade molten lava cake! Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do molten lava cakes bake?

Bake them for 12 to 14 minutes at 425°F (220°C). The edges should be set while the middle stays soft.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes. Mix the batter, refrigerate it, and bring it to room temperature before you bake.

How do I turn the cakes out of the ramekins?

Let them cool for 1 to 2 minutes, run a knife around the edge to loosen, then invert each one onto a serving plate. Dusting the greased ramekins with cocoa powder beforehand stops them sticking.

Browse more in our Cakes Recipes collection.

Molten Lava Cake and Its Nutritional Information