Dessert

Nutella Lava Cakes

Name: Nutella Lava Cakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter; 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped; 2 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1/8 tsp salt; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 4 tbsp Nutella (1 tbsp per cake); Butter or non-stick spray for greasing ramekins; Optional: powdered sugar or ice cream for serving

Bysarra August 21, 2025

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Short Description

Nutella Lava Cakes are rich, individual chocolate cakes with a molten Nutella center that flows out when cut open. They are simple to prepare, elegant to serve, and ideal for both casual desserts and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes
Gooey Nutella center that feels indulgent and luxurious
Impressive dessert with minimal effort, perfect for entertaining
Versatile—can be made in advance and baked just before serving
Pairs beautifully with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
Unsalted butter (or salted, with a pinch of salt)
Nutella
Eggs (whole eggs and extra yolks)
Granulated sugar or powdered sugar
All-purpose flour

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
Grease ramekins and lightly dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
Melt chocolate and butter together until smooth, then allow to cool slightly.
Whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
Fold in the melted chocolate mixture, then sift in flour and gently combine.
Divide batter between ramekins, then spoon Nutella into the center of each. Cover with a little extra batter.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft.
Allow cakes to rest for 2–3 minutes, then carefully invert onto plates.
Serve immediately with ice cream, whipped cream, or berries.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2–4 cakes depending on ramekin size
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

4-Ingredient Version: Egg, sugar, flour, and Nutella for a simplified recipe.
Single-Serve Option: Bake a smaller portion in a ramekin or mug.
Different Fillings: Try salted caramel, cookie butter, peanut butter, or fruit preserves instead of Nutella.
Flavor Twists: Add a hint of espresso powder, orange zest, or a splash of liqueur for depth.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Baked cakes can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. The center may solidify.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare batter in ramekins, refrigerate up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

FAQs

1. Can I make Nutella Lava Cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it in ramekins until ready to bake.

2. Can I freeze Nutella Lava Cake batter?

Yes, the batter can be frozen in ramekins for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

3. How do I know when the cakes are done?

The edges should be firm while the center remains slightly jiggly and shiny.

4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

5. What size ramekins should I use?

Six-ounce ramekins are the standard size for individual lava cakes.

6. What if my cakes don’t have a molten center?

They may have been overbaked. Reduce the baking time by 1–2 minutes next time.

7. Can I make this without ramekins?

Yes, you can use a muffin tin, but reduce the baking time slightly.

8. Are the eggs fully cooked in lava cakes?

Yes, the high oven temperature ensures eggs are safely cooked, though the center stays soft.

9. What can I serve with Nutella Lava Cakes?

They pair well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

10. Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Nutella Lava Cakes are an indulgent yet simple dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with a luscious molten Nutella center. Whether you prepare them for a dinner party, a romantic evening, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, they are guaranteed to impress. With options for variations, make-ahead convenience, and simple reheating, this recipe is versatile and foolproof.

sarra