Decadent Chocolate
Lava Cake

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 8 oz (about 1 1/3 cups) good quality dark chocolate (around 60-70% cocoa), chopped

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• Pinch of salt

• Cocoa powder or powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Directions

1.  Preheat Oven and Prepare Ramekins:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease 6 ramekins (4-6 oz size) with butter and dust with cocoa powder or flour, tapping out any excess.

2.  Melt Butter and Chocolate:

• In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together until smooth. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.

3.  Mix in Sugars:

• Once melted and smooth, stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. Let the mixture cool slightly.

4.  Add Eggs and Vanilla:

• Add the eggs, one at a time, to the chocolate mixture, stirring well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5.  Incorporate Flour and Salt:

• Gently fold in the flour and a pinch of salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6.  Fill Ramekins:

• Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.

7.  Bake:

• Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set but the center should still be slightly jiggly.

8.  Serve:

• Carefully run a knife around the edges of each ramekin to loosen the cakes. Invert each cake onto a serving plate. Dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar if desired.

9.  Enjoy:

• Serve immediately while still warm. Optionally, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.