Description
Treat your loved one to a show-stopping dessert with this Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake with Berry Heart Centerpiece Recipe. These individual cakes boast a molten chocolate center that flows like pure indulgence. Topped with a vibrant berry “heart” garnish, this dessert is the perfect romantic finale for your Valentine’s Day celebration. Simple to prepare yet undeniably elegant, this chocolate lava cake is sure to melt hearts.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lava Cakes:
- 4 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Berry Heart Centerpiece:
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced into thin hearts
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ramekins:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Generously grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and lightly dust with flour. Tap out excess.
- Make the Chocolate Batter:
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, or in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale and fluffy.
- Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. Sift in the flour and fold until just combined.
- Fill and Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
- Prepare the Berry Heart Centerpiece:
- While the cakes bake, cut strawberries into heart shapes. Arrange them on a plate with raspberries in a heart-shaped pattern.
- Serve:
- Let the cakes cool for 2 minutes, then gently invert onto serving plates.
- Top each cake with the berry heart garnish and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For added indulgence, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Cakes can be prepared up to 1 day in advance and baked just before serving.
- Ensure the berries are dry before garnishing to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 14
- Category: Main Course