Molten Chocolate Cakes
Ingredients:
For the Cakes:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing
- 6 ounces semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Generously butter four 6-ounce ramekins or custard cups. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chopped chocolate over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt until the mixture is thick and pale.
- Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, whisking continuously until well combined.
- Sift the flour over the chocolate mixture and fold in gently with a spatula until just combined.
4. Fill the Ramekins:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
5. Bake the Cakes:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges of the cakes are set but the centers are still slightly soft and jiggly. The tops should be puffed and slightly cracked.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes sit for 1 minute.
6. Serve:
- Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cake to loosen it. Invert each ramekin onto a serving plate and let it sit for about 10 seconds before lifting the ramekin off.
- Dust the tops with powdered sugar and serve immediately with fresh berries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Enjoy your Molten Chocolate Cakes! These decadent desserts are perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in a rich, gooey chocolate treat.
