Description
If you’re in the mood for something rich, gooey, and incredibly indulgent, these Mini Chocolate Lava Cakes made in the air fryer are the answer. Each little cake has a soft, warm exterior with a luscious molten chocolate center that oozes out with every bite. They’re quick, easy, and make the perfect dessert for a cozy night in, date night, or whenever that chocolate craving hits.
No oven needed—just a few pantry staples and your air fryer. These mini lava cakes are ready in under 15 minutes and feel straight out of a fancy restaurant.
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Ingredients
Makes 4 mini lava cakes:
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½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar)
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¼ cup unsalted butter (plus more for greasing)
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Cooking spray or softened butter (for greasing ramekins)
Optional Toppings:
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Vanilla ice cream
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Fresh berries
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Whipped cream
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Chocolate shavings
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Mint leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Ramekins
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Grease each ramekin well with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your cakes release easily.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and butter.
Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. Let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
Pour in the melted chocolate mixture and whisk to blend.
Add the flour and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Fill the Ramekins
Divide the batter evenly between the 4 ramekins, filling each about ¾ full.
Step 5: Air Fry
Place the ramekins in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
Air fry at 350°F for 8–9 minutes. The tops should look set, but the centers will still jiggle slightly—that’s what gives the lava effect.
Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Remove the ramekins carefully (they’ll be hot!) and let them cool for 1–2 minutes.
Use a butter knife to loosen the edges, then carefully invert each cake onto a serving plate.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with ice cream, berries, or whipped cream.
Notes
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Don’t Overbake – The key to a gooey center is slightly undercooking.
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Use Good Chocolate – Higher-quality chocolate equals better taste and texture.
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Grease Thoroughly – This helps the cakes release without sticking.
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Serve Immediately – Lava cakes are best eaten warm when the centers are molten.
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Try Silicone Molds – If you don’t have ramekins, silicone molds work beautifully.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Cuisine: American