Chocolate Lava Cakes with Fresh Berries

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Rich, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make, Chocolate Lava Cakes are a timeless dessert that everyone loves. With a molten chocolate center that flows out as you cut into it, these cakes are perfect for any occasion. Pair them with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
  • 4 oz (113g) high-quality bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries) for serving
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ramekins

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust lightly with flour or cocoa powder, tapping out the excess.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Batter

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggs, and egg yolks until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until fully combined.
  3. Sift in the flour and salt, and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Bake the Lava Cakes

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins.
  2. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly soft. The timing is crucial, as overbaking will solidify the center.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the cakes rest for 1-2 minutes, then carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate. Gently lift the ramekin to reveal the lava cake.
  2. Garnish with fresh berries, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm.

Historical Context:

Chocolate lava cakes gained popularity in the 1980s, with several chefs claiming to have invented the dessert. Today, these molten cakes are beloved worldwide for their rich flavor and dramatic presentation.

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories per serving: 350-400
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbs: 40g
  • Fat: 20g

For a lower-calorie version, you can use dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage and reduce the butter slightly.

A chocolate lava cake with molten chocolate flowing from the center, garnished with fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries) and a light dusting of powdered sugar.