Introduction To Chocolate Gooey Molten Lava Cake

Molten lava cake, also known as fondant au chocolate or chocolate lava cake, is a decadent dessert that has captured the hearts of chocolate lovers worldwide. With its rich, gooey center and delicate outer layer, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between a cake and a soufflé. Its origins trace back to French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who claims to have invented it by accident in the 1980s when he undercooked a chocolate sponge cake. Since then, molten lava cake has become a staple in fine dining and home kitchens alike.

What makes this dessert so special is its contrast in textures—a warm, flowing chocolate center encased in a tender, slightly crisp cake. The key to achieving the perfect lava cake lies in precise baking times and high-quality chocolate. Overbaking will result in a fully set center, while under baking may cause the cake to collapse.

This recipe provides a foolproof method for creating restaurant-quality molten lava cakes at home. With simple ingredients and minimal equipment, you can impress guests or indulge in a luxurious treat any night of the week.

Molten Lava Cake Recipe

Yield: 4 individual cakes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 oz (115g) high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
• ½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder or powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Optional: Vanilla ice cream or fresh berries (for serving)

Equipment Needed

1. Ramekins (4 oz size) – Essential for shaping the cakes.
2. Mixing bowls – One for melting chocolate and butter, another for whisking eggs and sugar.
3. Whisk or electric mixer – For beating eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Spatula – To fold ingredients gently.
5. Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – For melting chocolate and butter.
6. Fine-mesh sieve – For dusting cocoa or powdered sugar.
7. Baking sheet – To place ramekins on for even baking.
8. Oven – Preheated to the correct temperature for consistent results.
9. Knife or offset spatula – To loosen cakes from ramekins before plating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ramekins

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Generously butter the insides of four 4-oz ramekins, then dust with cocoa powder (to prevent sticking and add flavor).
• Place the ramekins on a baking sheet for easy handling.

2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter

• In a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over simmering water), melt the chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
• Alternatively, microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted.
• Let the mixture cool slightly.

3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar

• In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt until pale and slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer).

4. Combine the Mixtures

• Gently fold the melted chocolate into the egg mixture.
• Sift in the flour and fold just until combined (do not overmix).

5. Fill the Ramekins

• Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins (fill about ¾ full).
• Optional: At this point, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours (bring to room temperature before baking).

6. Bake to Perfection

• Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
• Do not overbake—the center should jiggle slightly when shaken.

7. Serve Immediately

• Let the cakes rest for 1 minute, then run a knife around the edges.
• Invert each ramekin onto a plate, tap gently, and lift to release the cake.
• Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder and serve with ice cream or berries.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven—start checking at 10 minutes.
• Serve immediately for the best molten center.

Enjoy your homemade molten lava cake—a dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious! ownthatcrown.com