Homemade Chocolate Lava Cakes

olivia

Published:

December 24, 2025

Homemade chocolate lava cakes with molten chocolate center

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About this recipe

I share an easy, fast cake you can make at home. These cakes have warm, soft centers. They melt on the fork. You can serve one for a simple treat or for a small party. Try it with ice cream or fruit for more taste. For a creamy dessert idea, see this chocolate caramel cake.

why make this recipe

You can make this cake with a few things you already have. The bake time is short. The result looks like a special dessert. Kids and guests like it. If you like chocolate and fruit, you may also like these cupcakes with a chocolate touch.

how to make Homemade Chocolate Lava Cakes

These steps will help you make soft, molten cakes. Read all steps before you start. Preheat the oven and get your ramekins ready.

Ingredients :

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
You can add a pinch of salt if you want. For a fruity match, try a recipe like these strawberry cupcakes to serve with the cakes.

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips together until smooth.
Stir in the powdered sugar until combined.
Add the eggs and egg yolks, mixing until well blended.
Fold in the flour until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared ramekins, filling them about 3/4 full.
Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
Let them rest for 1 minute before inverting onto plates. Serve warm.

how to serve Homemade Chocolate Lava Cakes

Serve them warm so the center is soft. Place one cake on a small plate. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or on top. Dust with a little powdered sugar. Add fresh berries if you like. For more chocolate dessert ideas you can look at these chocolate strawberry cupcakes.

how to store Homemade Chocolate Lava Cakes

Cool the cakes fully if you plan to store them. Cover them with wrap or place in an airtight box. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave until warm in the center. If you need to freeze, wrap tight and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Homemade Chocolate Lava Cakes

Use good chocolate for the best taste.
Do not overmix the batter. Mix until the flour hides.
Watch the bake time closely. A few minutes can change the center.
Grease and dust ramekins well so the cakes release easily.
If you want a sweeter twist, try a small spoon of jam in the center before baking. For more recipe ideas that use chocolate and fruit, check this cupcake recipe.

variation (if any)

Add a spoon of strong coffee to the melted chocolate for a mocha note.
Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Add a pinch of chili powder for a warm spice note.
Make mini cakes in a muffin tin for party bites.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes. Put batter in the ramekins and cover. Keep in the fridge for a few hours. Bake straight from the fridge but add 1-2 extra minutes to the bake time.

Q: What if the center is too runny?
A: Bake 1-2 minutes more. Every oven is different. Test one cake first.

Q: Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips?
A: You can, but you must add more butter and sugar. The chips melt and give a smooth center more easily.

Q: Can I make them dairy free?
A: Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. The bake time stays the same.

Q: How many cakes does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes four 6-ounce ramekin cakes, about.

Conclusion

For a similar melting chocolate cake and a full guide, see this great recipe at Chocolate Lava Cake – Preppy Kitchen.