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Ina Garten Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

Ina Garten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ina Garten’s Chocolate Lava Cake is an elegant dessert featuring individual cakes with a molten chocolate center. Made with dark chocolate, butter, eggs, and a touch of sugar, this dessert offers the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

  • Dark chocolate: 6 ounces, chopped (use high-quality chocolate).
  • Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), plus extra for greasing.
  • Eggs: 2 large.
  • Egg yolks: 2 large.
  • Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup.
  • All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons.
  • Salt: A pinch.
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon.
  • Optional garnish: Powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter. Dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
  • Melt the chocolate and butter: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • Prepare the egg mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until thick and pale.
  • Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, whisking gently to combine.
  • Add the dry ingredients: Sift the flour and salt into the mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Fill the ramekins: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
  • Bake the cakes: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers should still be soft and jiggly.
  • Cool slightly and serve: Let the cakes cool for 1–2 minutes, then carefully invert onto serving plates. Garnish with powdered sugar, berries, or whipped cream, and serve immediately.