Imagine cutting into a warm, soft cake and having rich, molten chocolate pour out like lava—this is the magic of Velvet Choco Lava. The perfect balance of a soft, moist exterior and a gooey, velvety interior, this dessert is an instant favorite for any chocolate lover. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these molten chocolate cakes will melt your heart and satisfy your deepest cravings.
Key Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Number of Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 individual cake
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Dietary Info: Contains gluten, can be made gluten-free with specific substitutions.
Ingredients List
- 200g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
- 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp (15g) cocoa powder (optional, for extra richness)
- 6 small squares of milk chocolate (about 10g each), for the molten center
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Oven and Ramekins: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease and lightly flour six individual ramekins or souffle dishes. Place them on a baking tray.
- Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter together. You can do this by microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or using a double boiler. Once melted and smooth, set aside to cool slightly.
- Whisk the Eggs and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Combine with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour, cocoa powder (if using), and a pinch of salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
- Assemble the Lava Cakes: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. Press a square of milk chocolate into the center of each ramekin, pushing it gently into the batter.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are soft and slightly wobbly. The tops should have a slight dome.
- Serve Immediately: Let the cakes sit for 1-2 minutes before carefully inverting them onto plates. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Timing is Key: The key to a perfect Velvet Choco Lava cake is in the baking time. If baked too long, the molten center will set, and if underbaked, the lava won’t flow. Aim for the perfect balance—set edges and a gooey center.
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: For the best texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature. Cold eggs can affect the batter’s consistency.
- Personalize the Lava: You can experiment by using different types of chocolate for the molten center. Try adding a small amount of peanut butter, caramel, or fruit puree for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Velvet Choco Lava cakes ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the batter and assemble the cakes in the ramekins ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I know when the cakes are done?
A: The cakes should be firm around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. If you gently touch the top, it should feel set but give a little when pressed. The molten chocolate center will start flowing once you cut into it.
Q: Can I make these cakes gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients for the best results.
The Velvet Choco Lava is the ultimate chocolate lover’s indulgence—rich, decadent, and full of surprises. Its warm, molten center is the perfect way to end any meal, and its simplicity makes it the ideal dessert for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible dessert today!
Discover more from Fuel Fork
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.