Chocolate Lava Cake for Two
This quick and simple recipe creates a chocolate-flavored cake for two, ideal for a speedy dessert. Utilizing basic pantry staples, it aims for a warm, moist interior, perfect for a last-minute treat. Best served warm.
Equipment
- 2 Microwave-safe Ramekins or Mugs For individual serving and cooking
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl For combining ingredients
- 1 Whisk or fork For mixing batter
- 1 Measuring Spoons For precise ingredient measurement
- 1 Measuring Cup For liquid ingredients
Ingredients
Main
- 10 tablespoons cake flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Grease two microwave-safe ramekins or mugs and set aside.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cocoa powder, and sugar until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, oil, and milk until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a whisk or fork until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared ramekins/mugs.
- Microwave one ramekin at a time on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the edges are set but the center still appears soft and slightly gooey. Adjust time as needed for your microwave.
- Carefully remove from the microwave (they will be hot).
- Let stand for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Optionally, invert onto a plate or serve directly from the ramekin.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
This recipe, titled 'Chocolate Lava Cake,' is notably minimalist, relying on cocoa powder for chocolate flavor rather than actual melted chocolate or butter, which are traditional in lava cakes. For a more authentic, rich, and truly molten center, consider adding 2-4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 2 ounces of good quality dark chocolate (melted) to the wet ingredients. Alternatively, place a square of chocolate in the center of the batter in each ramekin before cooking. Microwave cooking times vary; start with the lower end (e.g., 60-90 seconds) and check for a set edge and gooey center. Overcooking will result in a dry cake. Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries to enhance the experience.