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. Theyโre 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: 15โ18 minutes
- Total Time: 35โ40 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
- 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.
- 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
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- 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.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- 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.
- 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
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter into each cupcake liner, making sure the liners are half full.
- 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.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Cover the molten chocolate with the remaining cupcake batter, filling the cups about 3/4 full.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Cupcakes: Bake for 15โ18 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.
- 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
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant touch.
- 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 youโre 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 Loverโs 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.