30 minsMedium4 servings

Impress your guests with these show-stopping molten chocolate lava cakes. The crispy exterior gives way to a warm, flowing chocolate center that's pure indulgence.

Ingredients

  • 6 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cacao)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 egg yolks
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter and cocoa powder for ramekins
  • Vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep ramekins — butter four 6-oz ramekins generously and dust with cocoa powder. Tap out excess.
  2. Melt chocolate and butter together in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth.
  3. Beat eggs — whisk eggs, yolks, and sugar until thick and pale (3-4 minutes).
  4. Combine — fold chocolate mixture into eggs, then gently fold in flour and salt.
  5. Fill ramekins and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
  6. Bake at 425°F for 12-14 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
  7. Rest for 1 minute, then invert onto plates. Serve immediately with ice cream.

Pro Tips

  • Don't overbake — centers should still be liquid
  • Run a knife around edges before inverting for clean release
  • Can be made ahead and refrigerated, add 1-2 minutes to bake time