Chocolate lava cake recipe

### Yummy Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

Chocolate lava cake is a decadent dessert that combines a rich, moist cake exterior with a gooey, molten chocolate center. Perfect for special occasions or when you're craving something indulgent, this recipe serves about 4-6 people and is sure to impress.

#### Ingredients

**For the Cakes:**

- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

- 6 ounces high-quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped

- 2 large eggs

- 2 large egg yolks

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar

- 1/8 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

**For the Preparation:**

- Butter and cocoa powder for greasing the ramekins

- Powdered sugar, fresh berries, or ice cream for serving (optional)

#### Instructions

**1. Prepare the Ramekins:**

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter, making sure to cover all sides. Dust the inside with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess. This step is crucial to ensure that the cakes release easily after baking.

**2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter:**

1. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Microwave on high in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt them together in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

**3. Prepare the Batter:**

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt until the mixture is thick and pale, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, whisking continuously to combine.

3. Sift the flour over the batter and gently fold it in using a spatula until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.

**4. Fill the Ramekins:**

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet to make it easier to transfer them in and out of the oven.

**5. Bake the Cakes:**

1. Bake the lava cakes in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft and jiggly. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them. The tops should be puffed and slightly cracked.

**6. Serve the Lava Cakes:**

1. Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1-2 minutes. Then, run a small knife around the edges of each cake to loosen it from the ramekin.

2. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate and gently lift it to release the cake. The cakes should come out easily if they were well-greased.

**7. Add Finishing Touches:**

1. Dust the tops of the cakes with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

2. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

3. Serve immediately, while the centers are still warm and gooey. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate flavor.

### Tips for Perfect Lava Cakes

1. **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** Since the chocolate is the star of this dessert, choose a high-quality bittersweet or semisweet chocolate for the best flavor.

2. **Watch the Baking Time:** The key to a perfect lava cake is baking it just long enough to set the edges while keeping the center molten. Check them at the 10-minute mark and adjust the baking time as needed.

3. **Prepare in Advance:** You can prepare the batter and fill the ramekins up to a day in advance. Simply cover the filled ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.

4. **Experiment with Flavors:** For a twist, add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate and butter mixture to enhance the chocolate flavor, or stir in a tablespoon of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Bailey's for an adult version.

This classic chocolate lava cake recipe is a show-stopping dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. With its rich, molten center and tender cake exterior, it's sure to become a favorite indulgence for any occasion.

Enjoy!