This Chocolate Lava Cake is the ultimate indulgence, featuring a rich, molten center that oozes out when you cut into it. With a combination of dark chocolate and Nutella, this dessert is a chocolate lover's dream. The cake has a soft, delicate texture on the outside, while the inside remains gooey and warm, perfect for an elegant dessert or a cozy night in. Whether you prefer it with a molten center or as a soft cake, this recipe delivers a luxurious, chocolatey experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This lava cake is rich, decadent, and surprisingly easy to make. The combination of dark chocolate, butter, and Nutella creates a creamy and indulgent center, while the low gluten flour keeps the cake tender. The recipe allows for two variations: a gooey lava center or a fully baked soft cake, so you can choose your preferred texture. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a cozy night with dessert.
Perfect Occasion: This lava cake is ideal for special occasions like dinner parties, date nights, or even just as a mid-week treat when you’re craving something indulgent. It’s also a great dessert to serve at holiday gatherings or to celebrate any special moments. Whether you serve it with whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or fresh berries, it’s a dessert that’s sure to please everyone.
Decoration Tips: For an elegant presentation, dust the finished cake with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the top. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. If you're feeling extra indulgent, garnish the plate with a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint to add a pop of color.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 100g unsalted butter (plus extra for coating the cup)
- 85g dark chocolate
- 20g Nutella
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 2 egg yolks (room temperature)
- 60g powdered sugar
- 87g low-gluten flour (or cake flour)
- 2g baking powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chocolate Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter, dark chocolate, and Nutella together. Stir occasionally until everything is melted and well combined. Once smooth, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the room-temperature eggs, egg yolks, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and frothy.
- Combine the Mixtures: Slowly pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly until fully combined.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift the low-gluten flour and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the flour mixture into the batter until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) for lava cake or 185°C (365°F) for soft cake. Coat the inside of your ramekins or baking cups with butter to prevent sticking.
- Bake:
- For Lava Cake: Bake at 180°C for 19-23 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft and gooey.
- For Soft Cake: Bake at 185°C for 27-30 minutes, or until the cake is fully set and the center is just slightly soft.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cakes to cool in the ramekins for a minute or two before gently running a knife around the edges to loosen. Carefully invert the cakes onto serving plates.
This Chocolate Lava Cake is the perfect dessert for any chocolate lover, with a warm, gooey center that flows out as soon as you cut into it. Enjoy this decadent treat while it’s still warm for the ultimate indulgence!