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I think I have the biggest sweet tooth of all time.
I’m sharing a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart: Chocolate Lava Cakes for Two.
This dessert is my go-to when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
It’s perfect for date nights, anniversaries, or just because it’s Tuesday and you need a chocolate fix!
Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there – craving something decadent but not wanting to make a full batch of dessert. That’s where these lava cakes come in.
They’re rich, gooey, and oh-so-chocolatey, but the recipe makes just enough for you and your special someone (or you and your future self, no judgment here!).
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a handful of ingredients and about 20 minutes, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
The first time I made these, I was nervous about getting that perfect molten center. But trust me, if I can do it, you can too!
Jump to Recipe
Chocolate Lava Cakes for Two:
Ingredients:
- 4 oz (113g) dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve immediately while the centers are still warm and gooey.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Grease two 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until light and frothy.
- Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
- Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 1 minute.
- Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cake and invert onto serving plates.
A few tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Don’t skip greasing the ramekins. It makes a world of difference when you’re trying to turn out the cakes.
- The quality of your chocolate matters. Use the best you can afford – your taste buds will thank you!
- Keep a close eye on the cakes while they’re baking. Overbaking means no lava, and we definitely want that gooey center!
Chocolate Lava Cakes for Two
Ingredients
- 4 oz 113g dark chocolate, chopped
- ¼ cup 57g unsalted butter
- ¼ cup 50g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Grease two 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until light and frothy.
- Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
- Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 1 minute.
- Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cake and invert onto serving plates. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve immediately while the centers are still warm and gooey. Enjoy!
My favourite way to serve these is with a little vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast of hot and cold, chocolate and vanilla – it’s pure bliss.
Sometimes I’ll add some fresh raspberries too, just to feel fancy (and maybe a little healthier?).
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to the batter.
Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, put a piece of caramel or peanut butter in the center before baking for an extra surprise.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something special, give these lava cakes a try.
They’re proof that sometimes the best things come in small packages – especially when those packages are filled with molten chocolate!