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Cozy Chocolate Lava Cake for Two – Easy 15-Minute Recipe

chocolate lava cake for two - featured image

A foolproof chocolate lava cake for two that comes together in under 15 minutes with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe delivers a tender cake with a gooey molten center every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing ramekins
  • 4 ounces (113g) dark chocolate (60-70% cacao), chopped
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh raspberries or strawberries, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) and position rack in the center.
  2. Generously grease two 6-ounce ramekins with softened butter, then dust with cocoa powder or flour, tapping out excess.
  3. Melt butter and chocolate together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (about 60-90 seconds total). Let cool slightly.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, egg yolk, and sugar until thick and pale, about 2 minutes, until ribbon-like consistency.
  5. Add vanilla and espresso powder (if using) to egg mixture and whisk to combine.
  6. Pour melted chocolate mixture into egg mixture and fold gently with a rubber spatula until just combined.
  7. Sprinkle flour and salt over batter and fold gently until just incorporated.
  8. Divide batter evenly between prepared ramekins. Place ramekins on a baking sheet.
  9. Refrigerate or freeze for 5 minutes.
  10. Bake for exactly 12-14 minutes, until edges are set and center still jiggles slightly.
  11. Let cakes rest for 30 seconds. Run a thin knife around edges, invert onto plates, and serve immediately.
  12. Dust with powdered sugar and add ice cream or berries if desired.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao) and avoid chocolate chips. The 5-minute freezer rest is key for a reliable lava effect. Do not overbake; err on the side of underbaking. Serve immediately for the best molten center.

Nutrition

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