Lava Cake
Experience the ultimate dessert indulgence with our lava cake recipe. This delightful treat features a warm, molten chocolate center surrounded by a soft, rich exterior. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality lava cake right in your own kitchen. Prepare to satisfy your sweet cravings with this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (170g) bittersweet chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, 25g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein. This nutritional value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Grease two ramekins with butter and dust with flour.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together.
- Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until frothy.
- Combine the chocolate mixture with the egg mixture.
- Fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is still soft.
- Let cool for 1 minute, then invert onto plates and dust with powdered sugar.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor, or use gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free. Additionally, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Serving and Pairings
Serve the lava cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like strawberries and raspberries complement the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover lava cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm. It’s not recommended to freeze, as the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overbaking will result in a cake that is not gooey.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t skip greasing the ramekins; otherwise, the cakes may stick.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Let the cakes rest briefly before serving for easier removal.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different flavored chocolates.
- Add a splash of espresso for an enhanced chocolate flavor.
- Serve with a side of fruit for a refreshing contrast.
- Prepping the batter ahead of time can save time on special occasions.
FAQs
Can I make lava cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for the best results.
What type of chocolate is best for lava cake?
Bittersweet chocolate is ideal for a rich flavor, but you can adjust based on your sweetness preference.
How do I know when the lava cake is done?
The edges should be firm, and the center should be soft but not liquid. A toothpick should come out with a bit of moist batter.
Can I use a different type of dish?
Yes, you can use muffin tins or other oven-safe cups, but adjust the baking time as needed.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or enjoyed cold, although the texture will differ from freshly baked.
Conclusion
Lava cake is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its rich, molten center makes it a favorite for chocolate lovers. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe will surely impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Lava Cake
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter
- 1 cup 170g bittersweet chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup 50g granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Grease two ramekins with butter and dust with flour.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together.
- Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until frothy.
- Combine the chocolate mixture with the egg mixture.
- Fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is still soft.
- Let cool for 1 minute, then invert onto plates and dust with powdered sugar.