Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes

Name: Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), chopped; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes for special occasions! The thrill of cutting into the cake and watching the rich, gooey chocolate flow out is thrilling every time. I find that using high-quality dark chocolate makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Plus, these cakes are surprisingly easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in, these little desserts are a true delight for chocolate lovers like me!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:25:16.754Z

When I first attempted Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes, I was amazed at how simple yet impressive they are. I used a mix of bittersweet and semi-sweet chocolate to achieve the perfect balance of rich flavor with a touch of sweetness. The texture is crucial, and making sure not to overbake is key—just 10 minutes in the oven is all you need for that molten center!

One trick I found invaluable was to let the batter chill for a few minutes before pouring it into the ramekins. This not only helps the cakes rise better but also solidifies that delightful lava core even more. Every bite is a heavenly burst of chocolate, and I can’t wait for you to try this fabulous recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent molten center that oozes rich chocolate
Elegant dessert that's perfect for any occasion
Quick to make with minimal cleanup

      

Choosing the Right Chocolate

The quality of chocolate you use in your Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes plays a crucial role in achieving a decadent flavor. I recommend selecting dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 60-70%. This range strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and bitterness, ensuring a rich flavor without overwhelming your palate. Higher cacao content will yield a more intense experience, while lower content might result in an overly sweet cake.

It's also important to consider sourcing chocolate that is specifically labeled for baking. Brands that focus on high-quality ingredients tend to melt more smoothly and provide a superior taste. Avoid chocolate chips for melting; they often contain stabilizers, which can affect the texture of your cake's molten center.

Texture and Baking Tips

Perfecting the timing when baking these lava cakes is essential. You want the edges to set while the center remains gooey. I recommend starting with 10 minutes at 425°F (220°C) and checking for doneness. The cakes should have a firm texture around the edges but should jiggle slightly in the center when gently shaken. If you find they are undercooked, you can return them to the oven for an additional minute, but avoid overbaking, as that will eliminate the molten core you're aiming for.

When it comes to greasing your ramekins, don’t rush this step! Properly greasing with butter and dusting with cocoa powder ensures they release easily after baking. If you use flour, it can create a white film on the outside of the cakes, diminishing their appearance. I suggest preparing your ramekins right after preheating the oven to keep the momentum going.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), chopped
1 cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfect Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes.

Preheat and Prepare

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

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt them together in a microwave or over a double boiler until smooth, stirring occasionally.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine and Add Dry Ingredients

Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and stir until combined. Gently fold in the flour and salt until just mixed.

Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center is still soft.

Serve

Allow the cakes to cool for 1 minute, then run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates. Serve immediately with a scoop of ice cream or fresh berries.

Store any leftover batter in the refrigerator and bake as needed.

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overbake the cakes
the center should remain molten for that classic lava effect. You can experiment with different chocolate types for unique flavors.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, but keep an eye on them to avoid cooking the center more. Since the goal is to keep the interior molten, reheating requires careful attention—a task best done in short bursts.

These cakes can also be frozen before baking. After preparing the batter and pouring it into the ramekins, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply place them in the preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Dark Chocolate Lava Cakes, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture of ice cream perfectly complements the rich warm chocolate, contrasting the temperatures for an extra sensory delight. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, also add a tart freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

For a gourmet touch, you might consider drizzling caramel or espresso sauce on the plate before setting down the cake. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but it also introduces additional flavors that harmonize with the chocolate. I often sprinkle a dusting of sea salt on top right before serving to amplify the chocolate taste and add a touch of sophistication.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make lava cakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with lava cakes?

They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.

→ Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

→ How do I know when they're done?

The edges should be set, but the center should jiggle slightly when you gently shake the ramekin. That's when they're perfect!