Cocoa Warm Dark Lava

Decadent, rich dark chocolate lava cakes with a molten cocoa center—perfect for cozy evenings and sweet home desserts.

I first made these when craving a special treat and was surprised how easy and impressive they turned out.

Ingredients

• Chocolate Base: 100 g (3.5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) chopped 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter plus extra for greasing 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• Batter: 2 large eggs 2 large egg yolks 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 40 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• For Serving (optional): Powdered sugar for dusting Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream Fresh berries

Instructions

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Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Generously butter four 6-oz (180 ml) ramekins and dust with cocoa powder tapping out excess.

Step 2:

In a heatproof bowl melt the dark chocolate and butter together over a saucepan of barely simmering water (double boiler method) stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl whisk together eggs egg yolks sugar and vanilla extract until thick and pale.

Step 4:

Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.

Step 5:

Sift the flour and salt over the batter and fold in until smooth and glossy.

Step 6:

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins.

Step 7:

Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 11 13 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Do not overbake.

Step 8:

Let cakes cool for 1 minute then run a thin knife around the edges and invert onto serving plates.

Step 9:

Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.

Organize cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials under the sink for quicker access during cooking and cleanup.

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Organize cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials under the sink for quicker access during cooking and cleanup.

Check price on Amazon

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This dessert always brings smiles when served fresh at family gatherings.

Required Tools

4 ramekins (6 oz 180 ml each) Mixing bowls Whisk Heatproof bowl and saucepan (for double boiler) Sifter Baking sheet

Allergen Information

Contains Eggs dairy (butter) gluten (wheat flour) May contain Soy (in some chocolate) Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories 390 Total Fat 25 g Carbohydrates 36 g Protein 6 g per serving

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for an irresistible final touch.

Recipe FAQ

→ What’s the best chocolate type to use?

High-quality dark chocolate with 70% cocoa provides the perfect balance of richness and depth for the lava cakes.

→ How do I achieve the molten center?

Bake the lava cakes just until the edges are set but the center remains soft, usually 11-13 minutes at 220°C (425°F).

→ Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it, but bake immediately when ready to maintain the molten texture.

→ What are suitable accompaniments?

Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries to complement the rich chocolate flavors.

→ Are there alternatives for dietary restrictions?

Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for gluten sensitivities; ensure chocolate and other ingredients fit dietary needs.