Chocolate Lava Brownies are a decadent dessert featuring a rich, fudgy brownie exterior with a gooey, molten chocolate center. These indulgent treats are perfect for chocolate lovers and are sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Extra chocolate chips or chunks (for the molten center, optional)

Timing

Making the Chocolate Lava Brownies takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

1. Melt Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

1. Combine Sugar and Eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add Chocolate Mixture: Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Optional Chocolate Center: If desired, fold in extra chocolate chips or chunks for an even more molten center.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

1. Pour Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. The brownies should look slightly underbaked for a gooey center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm. For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Chocolate Lava Brownies (per brownie, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	200
Protein	2g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	24g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	15g

Tips for Customization

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
• Flavor Variations: Incorporate a teaspoon of espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for a gourmet touch.

Conclusion

Chocolate Lava Brownies are a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a gooey, molten center. They are easy to make and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy this delightful recipe!