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Chocolate Lava Cake

This 9x13 Chocolate Lava Cake is the easiest way to serve a crowd something rich, warm, and irresistibly gooey. The center stays molten while the edges bake up soft and fudgy, like the ultimate mix of brownies and traditional lava cake. With simple ingredients and quick prep, this dessert is perfect for holidays, birthdays, and cozy nights at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 16 Servings
Course: Dessert
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted butter
  • 8 oz Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chopped
  • 2 cups Powdered sugar
  • 4 Large eggs
  • 4 Large egg yolks
  • 2 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • Cocoa powder or butter for greasing the pan

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Medium saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
  • Heatproof mixing bowl
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Sifter
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

  1. Prep
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter and lightly dust with cocoa powder.
  2. Melt Chocolate + Butter
    In a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in short intervals, melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth.
  3. Mix Eggs + Sugar
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and powdered sugar until smooth and slightly thickened.
    Add vanilla extract.
  4. Combine
    Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture.
    Sift in the flour and salt and fold until just combined.
  5. Pour + Bake
    Pour the batter into the prepared 9x13 pan and spread evenly.
    Bake 20–25 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is still soft. The middle should jiggle slightly when you shake the pan.
  6. Serve
    Let the cake cool for 5–10 minutes before cutting into squares.
    Serve warm with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries.