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Easy Single-Serve Molten Chocolate Cake Recipe With Warm Gooey Center

easy single-serve molten chocolate cake - featured image

A quick and easy single-serve molten chocolate cake with a rich, gooey center perfect for solo indulgence or surprise guests. Ready in under 20 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: pinch of espresso powder
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
  • Optional: fresh berries for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the center.
  2. Lightly butter the inside of a 6-ounce ramekin and dust with cocoa powder, tapping out excess.
  3. Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and 2 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add 1 large room-temperature egg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Whisk vigorously until smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the batter and stir gently until fully incorporated.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared ramekin about 3/4 full. Optionally, add a small square of chocolate in the center.
  8. Place ramekin on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly.
  9. Let the cake rest for 1-2 minutes after baking.
  10. Run a knife around the edges to loosen and invert onto a plate or serve directly from the ramekin. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with vanilla ice cream if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for smooth batter. Watch oven carefully to avoid overbaking. Butter and cocoa powder the ramekin thoroughly to prevent sticking. For a more molten center, reduce baking time slightly. Optional add-ins include espresso powder or a small square of chocolate in the center. Batter can be prepared ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: molten chocolate cake, single serve dessert, easy chocolate cake, quick dessert, gooey chocolate cake, chocolate lava cake