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Indulge in Decadence: Chocolate Molten Lava Cake Recipe

When it comes to desserts that evoke sheer indulgence, few can rival the allure of a Chocolate Molten Lava Cake. Often found gracing the menus of high-end restaurants, this delightful creation consists of a rich, chocolatey exterior encasing a luscious, gooey centre that flows like molten lava when cut into. The beauty of this dessert lies not only in its presentation but also in its depth of flavour and the ease with which it can be prepared at home. Here, I will guide you through an exquisite recipe that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

To make four delectable servings of Chocolate Molten Lava Cake, you will require the following ingredients:

• 115g dark chocolate (ideally 70% cocoa)
• 115g unsalted butter
• 150g icing sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 50g plain flour
• A pinch of salt
• Butter and cocoa powder for greasing ramekins

Equipment

• Four oven-proof ramekins (approximately 150ml capacity)
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk
• A heatproof bowl for melting chocolate
• A baking tray

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens) or 425°F. This high temperature is vital for achieving that perfect molten centre.

2. Prepare the Ramekins: Generously butter the insides of your ramekins to ensure the cakes release easily after baking. Lightly dust the insides with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess. This will provide an extra layer of flavour.

3. Melt the Chocolate and Butter: Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl along with the unsalted butter. Set the bowl over a pan of simmering water (a bain-marie) and stir until both chocolate and butter have melted smoothly. Alternatively, you can melt them in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until fully melted.

4. Combine Ingredients: Remove the melted chocolate mixture from the heat and stir in the icing sugar until well incorporated. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding the eggs and egg yolks to avoid scrambling. Whisk in the eggs and yolks, followed by the vanilla extract.

5. Add Flour and Salt: Gently fold in the plain flour and salt using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the batter to be smooth but still airy.

6. Fill the Ramekins: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each to about three-quarters full.

7. Bake: Place the ramekins on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-14 minutes. The cakes should be firm around the edges but slightly soft in the centre; this is where the molten magic happens!

8. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the ramekins from the oven and allow to rest for a minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen them, then invert each ramekin onto a plate. Give it a gentle tap to release the cake.

9. Enjoy: Serve immediately, perhaps with a dusting of icing sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. The contrast of cold ice cream against the warm, molten chocolate is sheer bliss!

Tips for Success

• Ensure that your ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature for the best results.
• For a little extra flavour, consider adding a splash of espresso to intensify the chocolate experience or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving.
• The batter can be prepared in advance; simply refrigerate the filled ramekins and bake them fresh when you’re ready for dessert. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can create an iconic dessert that is as dramatic as it is delicious. Chocolate Molten Lava Cake is perfect for special occasions or a sumptuous treat just because. So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and prepare to impress — your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!

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