Indulge in this decadent and delightful Easy Lava Cake, a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These mini cakes feature a rich, gooey center surrounded by a tender cake exterior, sure to impress everyone. Serve them warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup good quality dark chocolate chips (recommended: Ghirardelli)
- ¼ cup whole milk (for melting chocolate)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup cake flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup whole milk, room temperature (for cake batter)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional garnish)
- Chocolate syrup (optional drizzle)
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate Center
Place dark chocolate chips in a small heat-safe bowl. Heat ¼ cup of milk in the microwave for 30 seconds, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit briefly, then stir until smooth. Refrigerate the melted chocolate for 20 minutes. - Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Add cake flour and kosher salt, whisking to combine. - Mix the Batter
Add room temperature milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Fold until the batter is smooth and well combined. - Portion the Chocolate Filling
Remove the chilled chocolate mixture from the refrigerator and use a teaspoon to scoop small portions. - Heat and Oil the Pan
Lightly coat an appe pan (or similar pan) with vegetable oil using a pastry brush, heating it over medium-low heat. - Assemble the Lava Cakes
Fill each “cup” in the pan about ⅔ full with cake batter (approximately 1 tablespoon). Place a small scoop (⅔ teaspoon) of chilled chocolate in the center, then add a little batter to cover the chocolate. - Cook the Cakes
Cover with the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes. Flip the cakes carefully using a spoon or butter knife, cover, and cook an additional minute. Remove and place on a serving plate. Repeat with remaining batter. - Serve
Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 34