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Pioneer Woman Molten Chocolate Cake

Pioneer Woman Molten Chocolate Cake - recipe card
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This indulgent molten chocolate cake features a rich, tender chocolate exterior with a warm, gooey center that flows like lava when you break into it. Made with high-quality chocolate and butter, it’s a decadent dessert that’s surprisingly simple to prepare, perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner for two.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing ramekins
  • 6 ounces semisweet chocolate (60-70% cacao), finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting ramekins
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously butter four 6-ounce ramekins and dust with cocoa powder, tapping out any excess. This ensures the cakes release cleanly and adds a subtle bitterness that complements the sweet chocolate.
  2. In a medium heatproof bowl set over a pot of barely simmering water (ensure the bowl doesn’t touch the water), melt the unsalted butter and chopped chocolate together. Stir frequently with a rubber spatula until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly for 2-3 minutes.
  3. In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt together until well combined and slightly pale in color, about 1 minute. The mixture should be thoroughly blended but not frothy.
  4. Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent them from scrambling. Continue whisking until the batter is smooth and uniform.
  5. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the batter and gently fold it in with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cakes tough. The batter will be thin and shiny.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
  7. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-13 minutes for a runny center, or 14-15 minutes for a slightly firmer but still molten center. The edges should be set and the tops just barely firm to the touch; the centers should still jiggle slightly.
  8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cakes rest in the ramekins for 2-3 minutes. This brief rest allows the edges to set slightly while keeping the centers molten.
  9. To unmold, run a small offset spatula or butter knife around the inside edge of each ramekin to loosen the cake. Place an inverted plate over each ramekin and carefully flip it over. Lift the ramekin off to reveal the cake.
  10. Serve immediately while warm. The cakes will continue to set as they cool, so for the classic molten effect, they must be served right away. Accompany with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Notes

Storage: These cakes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, you can prepare the batter ahead of time: fill the ramekins, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bake directly from the refrigerator for 14-16 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Freezing: Baked and cooled cakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each unmolded cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. To reheat, unwrap and place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or microwave on high for 30-45 seconds until the centers are warm and molten again. Note that reheating may firm the center slightly, so consider a few extra seconds in the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: molten chocolate cake, lava cake, chocolate dessert, individual chocolate cakes, easy molten cake, chocolate fondant, American dessert, baking, romantic dessert, dinner party dessert, Ree Drummond style, homemade chocolate cake

Find it online: https://inspiredbypioneerwoman.com/pioneer-woman-molten-chocolate-cake/