Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes

Indulge in these rich and gooey chocolate lava cakes that ooze molten chocolate with every bite. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat any day, these individual cakes are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins (6 oz size) with butter and lightly dust them with flour. This prevents the cakes from sticking.
2. Melt chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until the mixture is slightly thickened and pale in color. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine mixtures: Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring continuously until well combined.
5. Add dry ingredients: Sift in the flour and salt, and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fill ramekins: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center is still soft. The tops should look set.
8. Rest and unmold: Remove from the oven and let them sit for 1 minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges of each ramekin to loosen the cakes, then invert onto individual serving plates.
9. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Enjoy the delightful experience of cutting into these lava cakes and watching the chocolate flow out—pure dessert bliss!