Cocoa Warm Dark Chocolate

Decadent, rich dark chocolate lava cakes with a molten cocoa center—perfect for cozy evenings and sweet home desserts.

This cozy dessert always impresses guests and makes for a memorable treat at home.

Ingredients

• Chocolate Base: 100 g (3.5 oz) high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa) chopped 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter plus extra for greasing 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• Batter: 2 large eggs 2 large egg yolks 100 g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 40 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• For Serving (optional): Powdered sugar for dusting Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream Fresh berries

Instructions

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

Check price on Amazon

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Generously butter four 6-oz (180 ml) ramekins and dust with cocoa powder tapping out excess.

Step 2:

In a heatproof bowl melt the dark chocolate and butter together over a saucepan of barely simmering water (double boiler method) stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl whisk together eggs egg yolks sugar and vanilla extract until thick and pale.

Step 4:

Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.

Step 5:

Sift the flour and salt over the batter and fold in until smooth and glossy.

Step 6:

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins.

Step 7:

Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 11 13 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Do not overbake.

Step 8:

Let cakes cool for 1 minute then run a thin knife around the edges and invert onto serving plates.

Step 9:

Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

Check price on Amazon

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

Check price on Amazon

Pin it

My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these warm lava cakes together on chilly nights.

Notes

For an extra decadent center press a few chocolate chips into the middle of the batter before baking. Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Pair with a glass of Ruby Port or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon.

Required Tools

4 ramekins (6 oz/180 ml each) Mixing bowls Whisk Heatproof bowl and saucepan (for double boiler) Sifter Baking sheet

Allergen Information

Contains Eggs dairy (butter) gluten (wheat flour) May contain Soy (in some chocolate) Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Pin it

Juice whole fruits and vegetables easily for fresh drinks, sauces, and nutrient-rich recipes.

Check price on Amazon

These lava cakes deliver a luxurious dessert experience that's both impressive and delicious every time.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I achieve the molten center effect?

Baking just until the edges are firm while keeping the centers soft is key. Bake for 11–13 minutes at high heat, then cool briefly before serving.

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

For best flavor and texture, high-quality dark chocolate with around 70% cocoa is recommended, but semi-sweet chocolate can be an alternative.

→ What is the purpose of adding cocoa powder to the batter?

Cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a richer, deeper cocoa taste to the cakes.

→ Are there ways to customize the flavor?

Try pressing chocolate chips in the center before baking or pairing finished cakes with fresh berries or a splash of your favorite dessert wine.

→ How should I prepare ramekins before baking?

Grease each ramekin generously with butter and dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking and enhance texture.