Molten Chocolate Cake is the kind of dessert that makes everyone at the table go “wow.” I first tried making this recipe during a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I’ve been hooked ever since. The magic happens when you break into the cake – the center flows out like warm chocolate lava, creating a moment of pure joy. Don’t let the fancy name fool you – this recipe is surprisingly simple to make.
About the Recipe
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and elegance. You don’t need fancy equipment or professional skills – just good chocolate and careful timing. The ground almonds add a subtle nutty flavor and help create the perfect texture. It’s impressive enough for special occasions but simple enough for a weekend treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick prep time: Takes just 10 minutes to prepare
– No special skills needed: Just mix, pour, and bake
– Wow factor: The flowing center never fails to impress
– Foolproof method: Clear steps that work every time
– Make ahead: Prepare the batter earlier and bake when needed
– Rich taste: Uses real chocolate instead of cocoa powder
– Perfect portion size: Individual servings mean no messy cutting
Cooking Tips
– Use room temperature eggs for better mixing
– Don’t overbake – the center should be slightly jiggly
– Grease your molds really well to prevent sticking
– Use good quality chocolate – it makes a big difference
– Let the cakes rest for 1 minute after baking before turning them out
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people. Total time: 20 minutes (10 prep + 10 baking)
Serve immediately while hot. Add vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for extra flair.
The batter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Similar Recipes
- Classic Chocolate Soufflé
- Flourless Chocolate Cake
- Hot Chocolate Pudding
Nutrient Benefits
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and minerals like iron and magnesium. Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. While this is a dessert, using quality ingredients means you’re getting some nutritional value along with your treat.
Molten Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
- 450 gms Chocolate (not too sweet and not too bitter)
- 1/2 cup Butter (unsalted, cubed)
- 2 Eggs (large)
- 2 Egg Yolks
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 1/4 cup Almonds (ground to a fine powder)
- Plastic moulds (few, greased)
- Icing Sugar (or Cocoa Powder to garnish)
Instructions
- Mix the chocolate and butter in a bowl set over a pan of boiling water.
- guarantee the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
- Heat till the chocolate and butter has melted fully, stirring from time to time.
- Remove and keep warm.
- Beat the eggs and egg yolks in a bowl.
- Halfway through, add the sugar and beat well until the mixture is soft pale yellow and doubled in size.
- Add the almond flour and beat well until well combined.
- Add the reserved melted chocolate and beat for a minute.
- Fill the moulds with the batter and place them in a preheated oven at 425F/220C.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the top is almost set.
- Remove and quickly invert onto serving plates.
- Sprinkle some icing sugar on top.
- Serve hot.
Sign up for our newsletter
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes. Make the batter up to 24 hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have ground almonds?
You can substitute with all-purpose flour, though the texture will be slightly different.
Why did my cake not have a liquid center?
The most common reason is overbaking. Watch your timing carefully and remember that the center should still be jiggly when you take it out.
Can I reheat leftover cakes?
These cakes are best served fresh. Reheating will cook the center further and you’ll lose the molten effect.
3 comments
Looks great can’t wait to try
From a long time was searching for a perfect recipe becoz most recipes I tried result was souffle not lava cake….will try this one
Oh my gosh…this is wicked! I can’t resist that chocolate cake!