If you're looking to impress your dinner guests or satisfy your chocolate craving in an unforgettable way, these Chocolate Lava Cakes are the dessert for you. Imagine digging into a delicate cake exterior, only to find a river of decadent molten chocolate flowing from the center. They’re wonderfully rich, perfectly gooey, and best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This dessert is a revelation that promises to delight any chocolate lover.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter. Dust them with cocoa powder, tapping out any excess.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of unsalted butter together in 30-second intervals until smooth and glossy. Stir well after each interval.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 2 egg yolks, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly until combined.
Fold in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool for about 1 minute. Then run a knife around the edges of the ramekins and invert the cakes onto plates.
Serve immediately while the centers are still molten, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.