This 30 Minute Chocolate Lava Cake is the ultimate quick-fix dessert for chocolate lovers! With a gooey molten center and a festive sprinkle topping, it’s perfect for celebrations or a decadent weeknight treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients
For the Cakes:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 6 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Lava:
- 2 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For Topping:
- Sprinkles (your favorite variety)
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease 4 ramekins (6 oz size) with butter and lightly dust with cocoa powder or flour. Set on a baking sheet.
- Make the Lava: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 oz chocolate and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Melt Chocolate & Butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup butter and 6 oz chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool for 2 minutes.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk in the powdered sugar until combined. Add eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fill Ramekins: Spoon half the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins. Place a heaping teaspoon of the chocolate lava mixture in the center of each. Top with remaining batter, covering the lava.
- Bake: Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The tops should look firm but jiggle slightly when shaken.
- Cool & Serve: Let cakes cool for 1 minute. Run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates. Top with sprinkles and, if desired, whipped cream or ice cream.
- Enjoy! Serve immediately for the best molten lava effect.
Tip: For best results, use high-quality chocolate. If you need semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, you can find it here on Amazon.
