Chocolate Lava Cake

Chocolate lava cake, also known as molten chocolate cake, is a decadent dessert with a gooey, rich chocolate center. Here's a recipe to make a delicious chocolate lava cake:

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: powdered sugar or cocoa powder for dusting
• Optional: whipped cream or ice cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease and lightly flour four 6-ounce ramekins or individual baking dishes.
2. In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate and butter have melted and become smooth. Remove the bowl from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Sift in the flour and salt, and gently fold them into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling them about 3/4 full.
7. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for about 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft and slightly jiggly.
9. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the ramekins for a couple of minutes.
10. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a serving plate, gently tapping the bottom if needed to release the cake. Alternatively, you can serve the cakes directly in the ramekins.
11. Dust the cakes with powdered sugar or cocoa powder, if desired.
12. Serve the chocolate lava cakes warm, either on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

When you cut into the chocolate lava cake, the warm, melted chocolate center will ooze out, creating a delightful and indulgent dessert. Enjoy the rich, gooey goodness of chocolate lava cake for a special treat or to impress your guests!