Choco Lava Cake Recipe – Gooey Chocolate Dessert with Molten Center

Choco Lava Cake, also known as Molten Chocolate Cake, is one of the most loved chocolate desserts in the world. With its soft, rich chocolate sponge and a warm, flowing chocolate center, this dessert feels luxurious yet comforting at the same time.

Popular in cafés, restaurants, and dessert menus globally, Choco Lava Cake became especially famous after being introduced as a signature dessert by brands like Domino’s Pizza. Today, it is a favorite choice for celebrations, date nights, birthdays, and sudden chocolate cravings.

The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or professional baking skills to make this dessert at home. With just a few basic ingredients and the right baking time, you can create a perfect choco lava cake that oozes molten chocolate when cut open.

Let’s learn how to make a foolproof Choco Lava Cake at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, gooey molten chocolate center
Easy and beginner-friendly
Made with simple ingredients
Perfect for special occasions
Ready in under 30 minutes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

½ cup dark chocolate (chopped)
¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 egg
1 egg yolk
¼ teaspoon vanilla essence
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (maida)
A pinch of salt

For Greasing:

Butter
Cocoa powder or flour

Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Moulds

Grease ramekins or small oven-safe bowls generously with butter. Dust lightly with cocoa powder or flour.

This prevents sticking and helps the cake come out cleanly.

Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F).

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, add chopped dark chocolate and butter.

Melt using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Mix until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

In another bowl, whisk egg, egg yolk, and powdered sugar until light and slightly fluffy.

Add vanilla essence and mix well.

Now slowly add the melted chocolate mixture and fold gently.

Sift in all-purpose flour and salt. Fold until just combined.

Do not overmix.

Step 4: Fill the Moulds

Pour the batter evenly into prepared moulds, filling about ¾ full.

Tap gently to remove air bubbles.

Step 5: Bake

Place moulds on a baking tray and bake in preheated oven for 10–12 minutes.

10 minutes → very gooey center
12 minutes → slightly thick molten center

Edges should be set, but the center should remain soft.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for 1 minute.

Gently loosen edges with a knife and invert onto a serving plate.

Serve immediately for the best molten effect.

Tips for Perfect Choco Lava Cake

Use good-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor.
Do not overbake — timing is crucial.
Preheat oven properly before baking.
Always grease moulds well.
Serve immediately after baking.

No-Oven Version (Pan Method)

Preheat a thick kadai with salt at the bottom.
Place a stand and cover with lid.
Bake on low flame for 15–18 minutes.

Check by touching edges — center should be soft.

Serving Suggestions

Choco Lava Cake tastes heavenly when served with:

Vanilla ice cream
Whipped cream
Fresh strawberries
Chocolate sauce
Powdered sugar dusting

The hot-cold contrast makes it even more irresistible 😍

Variations You Can Try

1. White Chocolate Lava Cake

Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.

2. Nutella Lava Cake

Add Nutella in the center for extra gooeyness.

3. Eggless Lava Cake

Use milk, baking soda, and vinegar as substitutes.

4. Coffee Lava Cake

Add ½ teaspoon instant coffee for mocha flavor.

Storage Instructions

Batter can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Bake just before serving.
Not recommended to store baked lava cake, as center sets over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why didn’t my cake ooze?

It was overbaked. Reduce baking time by 1–2 minutes next time.

Can I use milk chocolate?

Yes, but reduce sugar as milk chocolate is sweeter.

Can I microwave it?

Yes, microwave for 40–50 seconds, but texture will differ slightly.

Conclusion

Choco Lava Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. With its soft exterior and molten chocolate center, it delivers pure indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re making it for guests, celebrations, or a solo chocolate craving, this recipe guarantees perfect results every time.

Make this easy Choco Lava Cake at home and enjoy restaurant-style dessert without stepping out 🍫🤎✨

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