Imagine cutting into a decadent chocolate cake and watching a river of rich, velvety chocolate ooze out, creating a moment of pure culinary bliss. This French-inspired Molten Chocolate Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that transforms an ordinary evening into an extraordinary indulgence. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or satisfying your most intense chocolate cravings, this recipe promises a dessert so luxurious, it'll make chocolate lovers weak at the knees!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare your equipment: Gather 4 individual ramekins (6-ounce size), a medium saucepan, a mixing bowl, and a whisk.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Generously butter the inside of each ramekin and dust with cocoa powder, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan with barely simmering water. Melt the unsalted butter and chopped dark chocolate together, stirring gently until smooth and completely combined.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together whole eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and slightly pale, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the eggs. Gently incorporate until fully blended.
- Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the chocolate mixture, folding carefully until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should appear slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 1-2 minutes. The cakes will continue cooking slightly during this time.
- Carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate. Let sit for 10-15 seconds before lifting the ramekin to reveal the cake.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or garnish with fresh berries.
- Serve immediately while the chocolate center remains warm and molten. Best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Tips
- Temperature is crucial: Ensure your butter and chocolate are melted slowly and gently to prevent burning.
- Don't overmix the batter - this can deflate the eggs and result in a dense cake.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the most intense flavor.
- Timing is everything - even 30 seconds can change the cake's texture, so watch carefully while baking.
- Prepare ramekins meticulously - proper buttering and dusting prevents sticking and ensures a perfect release.
- Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the signature molten center.
- For a professional touch, use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients precisely.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 526kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 39g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Cholesterol: 147mg
