Molten Chocolate Cakes are a decadent dessert featuring a rich chocolate exterior and a gooey, molten center. These individual cakes are perfect for special occasions and are sure to impress your guests with their warm, luscious filling.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
• Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)

Timing

Making Molten Chocolate Cakes takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ramekins

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Grease Ramekins: Generously grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust with cocoa powder or flour to prevent sticking. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet for easy handling.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

1. Melt Together: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until thick and pale.
2. Combine Mixtures: Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, mixing until well combined.
3. Add Flour and Vanilla: Gently fold in the flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Fill Ramekins

1. Divide Batter: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center is still soft. The tops should look set, but a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist batter.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool for about 1 minute.
2. Invert and Serve: Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert each ramekin onto a plate. Let it sit for a few seconds before lifting the ramekin off.
3. Dust and Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Molten Chocolate Cakes (per cake, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Cake
Calories	350
Protein	6g
Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	31g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	18g

Tips for Customization

• Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your preference for sweetness and richness.
• Flavor Additions: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder or orange zest to the batter for an extra flavor boost.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added presentation and flavor.

Conclusion

Molten Chocolate Cakes are a luxurious dessert that offers a delightful contrast between the rich, chocolatey exterior and the warm, gooey center. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy this delightful recipe!