Easy One-Pot Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

A Simple, Indulgent Chocolate Treat

Indulge in the rich, molten goodness of this One-Pot Chocolate Lava Cake. It’s the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers, combining simplicity and elegance in every bite. With just a few ingredients, you can create a warm, gooey center that oozes chocolate bliss.

This recipe is quick to prepare and even quicker to bake, making it an ideal choice for last-minute cravings or special occasions. Just mix everything in one pot, pour it into your baking dish, and let the oven do the magic. Serve it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Your family and friends will be impressed, and you’ll love how easy it is. Enjoy the delightful contrast of the soft cake and the luscious lava inside. This One-Pot Chocolate Lava Cake is sure to become a favorite!

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

  • Easy Preparation: All ingredients are mixed in one pot, minimizing cleanup and effort.
  • Decadent Flavor: Rich chocolate flavor with a gooey, molten center that satisfies every chocolate craving.
  • Quick Baking Time: Bakes in just a few minutes, making it perfect for last-minute dessert plans.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Delicious on its own or served with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
  • Impressive Presentation: The lava cake looks stunning when served, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
  • Customizable: Easily add flavors like vanilla, espresso, or liqueurs for a unique twist.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this dessert fits right in.
  • Satisfies All Ages: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a hit at gatherings.

Key Ingredients

  • Dark Chocolate: Provides the rich, intense chocolate flavor and creates the gooey center.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a moist texture.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the bitterness of the chocolate.
  • Eggs: Contributes to the structure and helps create a fluffy texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the necessary structure for the cake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds depth.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Choose Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. A chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content is recommended.
  • Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, airy texture.
  • Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking and the right rise.
  • Use Ramekins: If using ramekins, make sure to butter and flour them well to prevent sticking. You can also dust them with cocoa powder for an extra chocolatey touch.
  • Check for Doneness: Bake until the edges are set but the center is still soft. It should jiggle slightly when you shake the ramekin.
  • Let It Rest: Allow the cakes to rest for a minute after baking before inverting them. This helps the molten center stay intact when you serve.
  • Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the lava cakes right after they come out of the oven while the centers are still gooey.
  • Experiment with Fillings: Consider adding a spoonful of nut butter or a piece of chocolate in the center for an extra surprise.
  • Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the presentation.
  • Adjust Baking Time: If you prefer a firmer center, extend the baking time by a minute or two, but watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Recipe You’ll Like…

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 12 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 27 mins
Cooking Temp: 350  °F Servings: 4 Calories: 400
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year, Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall

Description

Indulge in the rich, molten goodness of this One-Pot Chocolate Lava Cake. It’s the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers, combining simplicity and elegance in every bite. With just a few ingredients, you can create a warm, gooey center that oozes chocolate bliss.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  1. Melt Chocolate and Butter

    In a large pot, combine the dark chocolate and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

  2. Mix in Sugar

    Add the granulated sugar to the melted chocolate mixture and stir until well combined.

  1. Add Eggs

    Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

  1. Incorporate Dry Ingredients

    Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

  1. Prepare Ramekins

    Grease four to six ramekins with butter or cooking spray. You can also dust them with cocoa powder for an extra chocolate flavor.

  1. Pour the Batter

    Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.

  1. Bake

    Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.

  2. Rest

    Remove from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes.

  1. Serve

    Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate. Serve warm, optionally topped with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 400kcal
Calories from Fat 220kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 24g37%
Saturated Fat 14g70%
Cholesterol 100mg34%
Sodium 150mg7%
Potassium 200mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Sugars 30g
Protein 6g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will result in a sweeter cake with a different flavor profile. Dark chocolate is recommended for a richer taste.

How do I know when the lava cake is done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the ramekin. Be careful not to overbake, as this will cause the center to firm up.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. When ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature before pouring it into the ramekins and baking.

What can I serve with chocolate lava cake?

Chocolate lava cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce also adds an extra touch.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave for a few seconds.

Can I freeze the lava cake?

It's not recommended to freeze baked lava cakes, as they may lose their texture and molten center upon thawing. However, you can freeze the batter and bake it fresh when you're ready to enjoy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe contains all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

How can I ensure my lava cakes come out smoothly?

Greasing the ramekins well and dusting them with cocoa powder can help prevent sticking. Allow the cakes to rest for a minute after baking before inverting them onto plates.

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