Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes

Name: Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), chopped; 2 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence Recipes

Indulge in the rich and decadent experience of dark chocolate lava cakes, where a warm, gooey center awaits in every bite.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T18:42:30.294Z

These dark chocolate lava cakes are the perfect way to end a meal. With their rich flavor and molten center, they are sure to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a warm, gooey center
Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in

      

A Decadent Delight

Dark chocolate lava cakes are the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers. With every bite, you experience the luxurious flavor of rich dark chocolate, complemented by a warm, molten center that oozes out when you break into it. This delightful treat is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it an impressive addition to any dining experience.

The beauty of these lava cakes lies in their simplicity, as they only require a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time. They can be whipped up quickly, making them an ideal choice for unexpected guests or a romantic evening in. With just a little effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert that will leave everyone wanting more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary, or just looking to indulge after a long week, dark chocolate lava cakes fit the bill perfectly. Their elegant presentation and rich flavor make them a favorite at dinner parties, while their ease of preparation makes them suitable for a cozy night in. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for an extra touch of indulgence.

These cakes are also versatile enough to be customized. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or add a hint of flavoring, such as espresso or orange zest, to elevate the taste. This dessert can easily be adapted to suit your personal preferences, ensuring that every bite is just as you like it.

Tips for the Perfect Lava Cake

To ensure your lava cakes turn out perfectly, make sure not to overbake them. The key to that gooey center is to bake just until the edges are firm, allowing the center to remain soft and molten. Keep an eye on the timer, as ovens can vary, and a minute can make all the difference.

Additionally, greasing and dusting your ramekins is crucial to prevent sticking. This will allow you to easily invert the cakes onto plates without any hassle. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can assemble the batter in the ramekins and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake, making it even more convenient.

Ingredients

For the Cakes

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), chopped
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and dark chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Mix the Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until pale and frothy. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until well combined. Fold in the flour and salt until just incorporated.

Fill the Ramekins

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.

Bake the Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center remains soft. Let cool for 1 minute.

Serve

Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cakes and carefully invert onto plates. Serve immediately with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy your delicious lava cakes while they're still warm!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), dark chocolate lava cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will help restore that gooey center, making them almost as good as fresh out of the oven.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked batter in the ramekins. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy a treat, simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Dark chocolate lava cakes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, add a tartness that cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

For a gourmet touch, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the top before serving. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts or a pinch of sea salt on top, which will add texture and elevate the flavors even further. These simple additions can transform your dessert into a sensational masterpiece.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these lava cakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the ramekins in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

→ What if I don't have ramekins?

You can use a muffin tin instead, but adjust the baking time as needed.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead?

While you can use milk chocolate, it may result in a sweeter lava cake. Dark chocolate is recommended for the best flavor.

→ How do I know when the lava cakes are done?

The edges should be set while the center remains soft. You can test by gently shaking the ramekin; if the center jiggles, they are ready.