Molten Lava Chocolate Cake (Printable Version)

Rich chocolate cake with a flowing molten center, ideal for indulgence and special moments.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Butter and Chocolate

01 - 8 oz unsalted butter, plus extra softened for greasing
02 - 8 oz baking chocolate, chopped

→ Eggs and Sugar

03 - 4 large eggs
04 - 4 large egg yolks
05 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

→ Flavorings and Dry Ingredients

06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
09 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, plus extra for dusting

→ For Serving

10 - Powdered sugar, as needed for garnish
11 - Vanilla ice cream, as needed
12 - Chocolate sauce, as needed

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 450°F. Generously grease six 1/2-cup ramekins with softened butter and dust lightly with cocoa powder. Set aside.
02 - Combine butter and chopped baking chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth and glossy.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together whole eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Slowly pour melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Add vanilla extract and salt, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
05 - Sift flour and cocoa powder over the wet mixture. Fold carefully using a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
06 - Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full. Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain soft.
07 - Allow cakes to cool in ramekins for 1 minute. Run a knife around edges, invert onto plates, and lift off ramekins. Serve immediately topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Avoid overbaking to preserve the molten center. Cakes can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time by 2 minutes if baking chilled.