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Classic Chocolate Lava Cakes

Rich chocolate cakes with a molten center, crisp edges, and a tender crumb. An easy, impressive dessert ready in 25 minutes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • ​
  • 6 oz dark chocolate 60-70% cacao, chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter plus more for ramekins
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Cocoa powder for dusting
  • Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • 4 ramekins (6 oz)

Method
 

  1. Prep: Heat oven to 425F (220C). Generously butter four 6-oz ramekins and dust with cocoa powder. Place on a baking sheet.
  2. Melt: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  3. Whisk: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, yolks, and sugar until pale, thick, and ribbons fall from the whisk, about 3 minutes.
  4. Combine: Pour the warm chocolate into the egg mixture and fold gently. Add vanilla and salt. Sift in the flour and fold until just combined.
  5. Fill: Divide batter among prepared ramekins.
  6. Bake: Bake 11 to 12 minutes, until edges are set but centers still jiggle.
  7. Serve: Rest 1 minute, run a knife around edges, invert onto plates. Serve immediately with ice cream.