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Quick Description

These Chocolate Lava Cupcakes are an irresistible dessert that combines a decadent, gooey chocolate center with a rich, moist cake exterior. Perfect for any chocolate lover, these cupcakes offer a little molten magic in every bite. Theyโ€™re ideal for a special occasion, family gatherings, or when you just want to treat yourself to something indulgent.


Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 12 cupcakes
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15โ€“18 minutes
  • Total Time: 35โ€“40 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Cupcake Batter:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup (90 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (90 g) dark chocolate chips (or chunks)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) boiling water

For the Molten Chocolate Center:

  • 4 oz (115 g) semi-sweet chocolate (or dark chocolate)
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter

For the Topping:

  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Molten Center

  1. Melt the Chocolate: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and butter together. Stir until smooth. Once melted, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Chill the Molten Center: Once the mixture cools slightly, spoon it into small ice cube trays or silicone molds, about 1 tablespoon per mold. Freeze for at least 1 hour or until solid.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Melt Butter and Milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the cooled butter and milk mixture to the dry ingredients, then add eggs and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. The batter will be thick.
  5. Add Water and Chocolate Chips: Pour in the boiling water and stir until the batter is smooth and pourable. Stir in chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

  1. Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter into each cupcake liner, making sure the liners are half full.
  2. Add Molten Center: Take the frozen chocolate center and place one piece in the center of each cupcake, pushing it down slightly into the batter.
  3. Top with Remaining Batter: Cover the molten chocolate with the remaining cupcake batter, filling the cups about 3/4 full.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake the Cupcakes: Bake for 15โ€“18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the edges of the cupcake comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake โ€” the center should still be soft and gooey.
  2. Let Cool: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant touch.
  2. Serve Immediately: These cupcakes are best served warm so the molten center remains gooey. Enjoy!

Additional Notes

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the molten chocolate centers in advance and store them in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. When youโ€™re ready to bake, just assemble the cupcakes and bake as directed.
  • Customizing the Molten Center: You can swap the semi-sweet chocolate with milk chocolate or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.

Dietary Info

  • Chocolate Loverโ€™s Delight โ€“ These cupcakes are a rich, indulgent treat.
  • Not Low Calorie โ€“ A decadent dessert that should be enjoyed occasionally.

Flavor Tips & Variations

  • Add a Nutty Twist: Add crushed hazelnuts or almonds into the molten chocolate for added texture.
  • Fruit Variation: Add a few raspberries or sliced strawberries into the batter for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked, assembled cupcakes before baking. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.