Ina Garten Chocolate Lava Cake

Rich, gooey, and irresistibly decadent, Ina Garten’s Chocolate Lava Cake is the perfect dessert for any special occasion—or when you’re simply craving a touch of indulgence. These individual molten cakes boast a tender exterior with a warm, oozing chocolate center that melts in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ina Garten’s version of the beloved molten lava cake is not only elegant but also surprisingly easy to prepare. With a handful of high-quality ingredients and a simple baking method, you can impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth in under an hour. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a cozy night in, these cakes offer a luxurious dessert experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Semisweet chocolate chips
• Eggs
• Egg yolks
• Sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Vanilla extract
• Kosher salt
• Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting, optional)
• Fresh berries or ice cream (for serving, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Butter and flour 6 (6-ounce) ramekins and place them on a baking sheet.
2. In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt the butter and chocolate chips together until smooth. Let cool slightly.
3. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar on high speed for about 5 to 7 minutes, until thick and pale.
4. Add the vanilla and flour to the egg mixture and gently fold in the cooled chocolate mixture.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the ramekins.
6. Bake for exactly 10 to 11 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center is soft.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the ramekins for 1 minute, then invert each onto a dessert plate.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve immediately with berries or ice cream, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 11 minutes
Total time: 26 minutes

Variations

• Espresso Lava Cakes: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the chocolate mixture to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Peanut Butter Lava Cakes: Drop a small spoonful of peanut butter into the center of each ramekin before baking for a surprise filling.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
• Spiced Lava Cakes: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a subtle kick.
• Salted Caramel Lava Cakes: Insert a soft caramel candy into the center before baking for a molten caramel twist.

storage/reheating

Lava cakes are best served immediately after baking. However, you can prepare the batter ahead and store it in the ramekins in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Bring to room temperature before baking.

If you have leftovers, refrigerate the baked cakes for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to soften the center again, though the molten quality may be reduced.

FAQs

What makes the center of the cake molten?

The molten center comes from the short baking time, which allows the outer layer to set while keeping the center gooey and soft.

Can I make these cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and fill the ramekins in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, bittersweet or dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor. Just ensure it melts smoothly.

Do I need to use ramekins?

Ramekins work best, but you can use a muffin tin or small oven-safe cups. Adjust baking time slightly if using other containers.

How do I know when the cakes are done?

The edges should be set, and the center should jiggle slightly. Overbaking will eliminate the molten center.

Can I freeze the batter?

Yes, the filled ramekins can be wrapped and frozen. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before baking.

What should I serve with chocolate lava cake?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate.

How do I prevent the cakes from sticking?

Butter and flour the ramekins thoroughly, or use baking spray with flour to ensure easy release.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s kid-friendly, though it’s a rich dessert, so smaller portions may be more appropriate.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free butter and chocolate, but results may vary slightly in texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Chocolate Lava Cake is the ultimate dessert indulgence—decadent, elegant, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or treating yourself, this timeless recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right from your own kitchen. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to chocolate dessert.

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