Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent dessert that is sure to impress any chocolate lover. The Indulgent Molten Chocolate Lava Cake boasts a rich and gooey center that oozes chocolate goodness upon cutting into it. Perfect for special occasions or a simple treat to end your day, this dessert is a favorite for those who crave a warm, chocolatey delight.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: cocoa powder for dusting ramekins
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare four ramekins by greasing them with butter and dusting with cocoa powder to prevent sticking. Place the ramekins on a baking tray for easy handling.
2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened. This should take about 2 minutes.
4. Gradually fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to retain the air in the egg mixture, which helps achieve a light texture in the finished cake.
5. Sift the flour and salt over the chocolate mixture, then add the vanilla extract. Carefully fold everything together until just combined—do not overmix.
6. Evenly divide the batter into the prepared ramekins, filling each one about three-quarters full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center still looks slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
8. Remove the tray from the oven and let the cakes sit for 1 minute before inverting them onto plates. Gently run a knife around the edge of each ramekin to release the cake, then carefully turn it out onto a plate.
9. Serve immediately while still warm for that perfect molten center.
Tips:
– For an extra flavor twist, add a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
– You can substitute dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips according to your taste preference.
– If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can make the batter and refrigerate it in the ramekins. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the molten chocolate lava cakes warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce can add a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the chocolate. For added elegance, consider garnishing with a sprig of mint.
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