Chocolate Lava Cakes are a dessert lover's dream, with their rich, gooey centers that spill out when you dig in. Perfect for a special occasion or a pick-me-up treat, these cakes are surprisingly easy to make at home.
The key to these scrumptious cakes is quality. Starting with semi-sweet chocolate chips gives the dessert its rich flavor without being overly sweet. Unsalted butter adds creaminess, ensuring the cakes are moist and delicious. You'll need eggs and egg yolks for structure and the signature gooey center. A bit of granulated sugar sweetens the batter, while vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. All-purpose flour provides just enough body to the cakes, and a pinch of salt balances everything out perfectly.
These cakes pair beautifully with a scoop of good vanilla ice cream, which complements the rich chocolate perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh berries for a touch of tartness and color contrast.
First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Butter four 6-ounce ramekins generously, making sure every nook and cranny is covered to ensure easy removal later.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This should only take a minute or so, depending on your microwave.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until the mixture is thick and pale. This aeration is crucial as it helps the cakes rise and gives them a light texture.
Next, slowly stir the melted chocolate into the egg mixture. Add the vanilla extract at this stage to infuse the batter with its warm, inviting aroma.
Carefully sift the flour and salt over the batter, folding gently until just combined. You don’t want to overmix here, as that could lead to a denser cake.
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared ramekins, placing them on a baking sheet for stability. Bake for 12-14 minutes. You’re aiming for firm edges with a soft, jiggly center.
Once baked, let the cakes cool for about a minute. Run a knife around the edges to loosen them, then invert each ramekin onto a serving plate. Serve immediately to experience the delightful lava flow.
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