It’s funny how some of the easiest things to make are the things people are most impressed with. For example, take Lava Cakes; everyone is always so impressed when you serve them. They’re just convinced there is some sort of secret or skill to the gooey liquid middle. But in reality lava cakes are probably one of the easiest desserts you can make. It’s basically just a mix of very simple ingredients that are under baked….yes under baked. The gooey middle is just batter that has not formed yet. You could literally whip up some lava cakes in half an hour. So the next time you have the unexpected guest and you really want to impress them with your culinary abilities try whipping up some lava cakes! I will assure you your guests will love you! However, if you are like me and like preparing everything in advance you can make the batter ahead of time and just stick it in the oven when you are ready to serve.
The only advice I have to offer in regards to making these is that with any recipe where you only use a few ingredients the quality of the ingredients becomes paramount, so I would advise you to use the best quality of chocolate you can. It really will make all the difference in the world. Also, oven temperatures vary and what takes me 13 minutes to get perfect may only take you 11 minutes. So do not despair if at first the center does not gush out or it gushes out too much-just adjust how long you bake it for next time! Now, if the idea of taking them out of the ramekins causes you an undue amount of stress-just serve them in pretty ramekins!
These are also an insanely romantic dessert. So if you’re looking for ideas for what to serve on Valentines Day look no further!
Ingredients
- 5 ounces bittersweet, chopped
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon of Frangelico
- Pinch of salt
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Butter six ramekins. Dust with granulated Sugar and cocoa powder. Trust me these babies will slide right out!
3. Melt butter and chocolate in a saucepan over low heat. Let cool.
4. Whisk eggs and egg yolks in large bowl. Add sugar, then chocolate mixture and flour. Pour batter into dishes, dividing equally.
5. Bake cakes until sides are set but center remains soft and runny, 11-14 minutes. Bake for a couple more minutes batter that was refrigerated. Run small knife around cakes to loosen. Immediately turn cakes out onto plates.
Serve with ice cream
Enjoy!
One Comment
I agree… lava cakes are awesome. So little effort for such an awesome presentation. I posted a recipe for a marshmallow filled lave cake quite a while ago. It was amazing. Thanks for reminding me that I need to make some lava cakes soon. : )