Few desserts impress dinner guests quite like a perfectly executed chocolate lava cake. That magical moment when you cut in and molten chocolate flows out is pure theater.
The Secret
Lava cakes are essentially undercooked chocolate cakes. The outside sets while the inside stays liquid. Timing is everything.
Simple Recipe
For 4 cakes, you’ll need:
- 4 oz bittersweet chocolate
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 eggs plus 2 yolks
- 6 tablespoons flour
The Technique
Melt chocolate and butter, whisk in sugar, then eggs, then flour. Pour into buttered ramekins and bake at 425°F for exactly 12-14 minutes. The edges should be firm but the center will jiggle.
Pro Tip
You can prepare these ahead and refrigerate. Just add 2 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.