Description
This Air Fryer Lava Cake recipe delivers warm, gooey chocolate cakes with a molten center, perfect for an indulgent dessert. Quick to prepare and cooked effortlessly in the air fryer, these individual cakes are rich, fudgy, and ideal for chocolate lovers craving a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lava Cakes
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 4 oz (115g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
For Preparation
- Butter (for greasing ramekins)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare Ramekins: Generously grease two small ramekins with butter to prevent sticking. This will help your lava cakes release easily after cooking.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the unsalted butter together with the chopped chocolate until smooth and combined. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, whole eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until the mixture is thick and pale.
- Combine Chocolate and Egg Mixtures: Slowly add the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the all-purpose flour and pinch of salt. Gently fold the flour into the batter until no streaks remain, taking care not to overmix.
- Fill Ramekins: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full for adequate rising room.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Lava Cakes: Place ramekins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they fit comfortably without touching. Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 9-11 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center remains soft and gooey.
- Cool Slightly and Serve: Carefully remove the ramekins from the air fryer and let them cool for about 2 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and invert each cake onto a serving plate.
- Optional Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately for the best molten lava effect.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model; start checking at 9 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- For an extra touch, serve with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.
- Make sure ramekins fit comfortably in your air fryer basket before starting.
- Use high-quality chocolate for rich flavor and better melting consistency.
- The lava cakes are best enjoyed immediately after cooking for the perfect molten center.
