Classic Chocolate Lava Cake

Rich, gooey, and irresistibly indulgent, this Classic Chocolate Lava Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. With a delicate outer shell and a warm, flowing chocolate center, it’s a perfect way to elevate any special occasion — whether it’s a romantic dinner, holiday celebration, or just a cozy night in.

Chocolate lava cake with a molten center and scoop of ice cream.
Clock symbol indicating preparation, baking, and chilling times

Prep – 20 minutes
Bake – 10 minutes

Illustration of chocolate bars with segmented squares.

4 ramekins
Ingredients
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 4 oz (115g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Butter and cocoa powder for greasing
Instructions
  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease 4 ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder.
  • Melt the butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth.
  • In another bowl, whisk eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thick and pale.
  • Fold the chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Sift in flour and fold until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the ramekins.
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
  • Let sit for 1 minute, then run a knife around the edges and invert onto a plate.
  • Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Tips & Tricks

  • Don’t overbake — start checking at the 10-minute mark; the edges should be firm and the center slightly jiggly.
  • Use high-quality dark chocolate for the richest flavor and smoothest melt.
  • Serve warm, straight from the oven, when the center is perfectly molten.
  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the classic hot-and-cold contrast.
  • Garnish with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar for visual appeal.
  • Drizzle with salted caramel or berry sauce for extra flavor and flair.

Related Recipes

  • Chocolate-Filled Croissant Rolls – Another decadent, gooey-centered chocolate treat.

  • Texas Sheet Cake – Moist and chocolatey, perfect for serving a crowd.

  • Fudgy Brownies – Rich, dense, and irresistibly chocolatey, these fudgy brownies boast a gooey center and a crackly top — perfect for any chocolate lover.