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molten chocolate lava cakes

One bowl, no mixer, so easy! The warm, gooey, fudgy chocolate lava cake center is heavenly! Better than any restaurant versions. Top with ice cream and dig in! 🍫❤️
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 ounces dark chocolate or bittersweet baking chocolate
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter (1/2 of 1 stick)
  • 0.5 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 egg yolk discard white or save for another use
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso coffee granules
  • ice cream for serving (optional but recommended)
  • hot fudge for serving (homemade or storebought, optional but recommended)

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 425F and spray two ramekins (about 3-4 inches in diameter or about 4 ounces each) with cooking spray, place ramekins on a baking sheet; set aside.
  2. To a medium microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate, butter, and heat on high power to melt, about 1 minute. Stop to whisk until smooth. If needed, return bowl to micro and heat in 15-second increments until chocolate can be whisked smooth.
  3. Add the sugar, egg, egg yolk, and whisk until smooth.
  4. Add the flour, optional espresso granules, and stir until just combined; don’t overmix.
  5. Pour batter into prepared ramekins, divided evenly.
  6. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until edges are set but center is still soft; don’t overbake. Baking times will vary based on oven, ramekins, and climate variances; bake until as done as desired.
  7. Allow cakes to cool in ramekins for about 1 minute, gently rim the edges of ramekins with a paring knife, and invert over serving dishes to dislodge cakes.
  8. Optionally top with ice cream, hot fudge, and serve immediately. Cakes are best warm and fresh.

Notes

These molten chocolate lava cakes are best enjoyed warm and fresh. The instant espresso enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.