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Molten Chocolate Cakes Recipe

4.7 from 97 reviews

Indulge in the rich, gooey delight of Molten Chocolate Cakes, featuring a luscious semi-sweet chocolate center that oozes out when you cut into these perfectly baked individual cakes. This classic dessert is quick to make and sure to impress with its combination of a tender cake exterior and molten chocolate interior, best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Base

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)

Batter

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

To Finish

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
  • Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for creating the perfect crust and molten center.
  2. Prepare Ramekins: Generously grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust them lightly with cocoa powder or flour to prevent sticking. Place on a baking sheet for easy handling.
  3. Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
  4. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and slightly fluffy.
  5. Combine Chocolate with Egg Mixture: Gently stir the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture until fully combined and smooth.
  6. Fold in Dry Ingredients: Carefully fold in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cakes tender.
  7. Fill Ramekins: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full to allow space for rising.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set and firm while the centers remain soft and slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted should have moist batter clinging to it.
  9. Cool Slightly and Release: Remove the ramekins from the oven and let them cool for about one minute. Run a knife gently around the edges to loosen the cakes, then carefully invert each onto a plate.
  10. Serve: Let the cakes sit for a few seconds to release fully, then dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate decadent experience.

Notes

  • Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor.
  • If you don’t have ramekins, use any oven-safe small molds or cups of similar size.
  • Do not overbake to maintain the molten center; timing may vary slightly depending on your oven.
  • Ramekins can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge; bring to room temperature before baking.
  • Swap vanilla ice cream for whipped cream or fresh berries for serving if preferred.

Keywords: molten chocolate cake, lava cake, chocolate dessert, easy chocolate cake, individual chocolate cake, warm chocolate cake