Decadent Red Velvet Molten Lava Cake
Indulge in the irresistible charm of our Decadent Red Velvet Molten Lava Cake, a delightful dessert that melds the rich flavors of red velvet with a luscious white chocolate ganache core. Each bite reveals gooey, molten chocolate enveloped in a beautifully vibrant cake, making it the perfect romantic treat for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. With its eye-catching appearance and heavenly taste, this cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience that will sweep you off your feet.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
eggs
2 (large, at room temperature)
sugar
1/4 cup
red food coloring
2 teaspoons
white chocolate
4 ounces (melted)
butter
6 tablespoons (melted)
all-purpose flour
5 tablespoons (sifted)
cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons (sifted)
powdered sugar
1 tablespoon (for dusting)
white chocolate
4 ounces
heavy cream
1/4 cup
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour four ramekins and set them aside.
2
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined and slightly frothy.
3
Add the red food coloring to the egg mixture and blend thoroughly until the color is even.
4
In a separate bowl, combine the melted white chocolate and melted butter, stirring until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the egg mixture, folding gently to combine.
5
Sift the flour and cocoa powder together, then add them to the batter. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6
Divide half of the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Using a spoon, create a small well in the center of each portion, then add a scoop of the prepared white chocolate ganache.
7
Cover the ganache with the remaining batter, ensuring it’s well sealed inside.
8
Place the ramekins on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft.
9
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool for a few minutes before carefully inverting them onto small plates.
10
Dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving and enjoy the warm, gooey center!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Decadent Red Velvet Molten Lava Cake?
It is a rich red velvet dessert with a gooey, molten white chocolate ganache core that flows out when cut.
How many ramekins does this recipe require?
This recipe is specifically designed to fill four individual ramekins.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Why should eggs be at room temperature?
Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily into the sugar, resulting in a smoother batter texture.
When do I add the red food coloring?
The red food coloring should be whisked into the egg and sugar mixture until the color is even.
How do I prepare the white chocolate and butter?
Melt the white chocolate and butter separately or together and stir until completely smooth before adding to the eggs.
Why should I sift the flour and cocoa powder?
Sifting removes lumps and ensures the dry ingredients incorporate evenly for a light cake structure.
How do I assemble the lava cake?
Fill half the ramekin with batter, add a scoop of ganache, and cover with the remaining batter to seal it.
What is the secret to the molten center?
The molten center is created by placing a prepared scoop of white chocolate ganache inside the cake batter before baking.
How long should the cakes bake?
The cakes typically bake for 15 to 18 minutes depending on the accuracy of your oven.
How can I tell if the cake is perfectly cooked?
The edges should be set and firm, but the very center should still feel slightly soft to the touch.
Should I serve the cake immediately?
Yes, allow them to cool for just a few minutes before inverting and serving to ensure the center stays liquid.
How do I remove the cake from the ramekin?
Carefully run a knife around the inside edge of the ramekin and invert it onto a small serving plate.
What is used for the final garnish?
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is recommended for a beautiful and elegant finish.
Can I substitute the white chocolate ganache?
You can use milk or dark chocolate ganache if you prefer a different flavor profile for the molten core.
Why did my lava cake not have a liquid center?
This usually happens if the cake is overbaked; the ganache center solidifies if it stays in the heat too long.
Can I use liquid or gel food coloring?
Both work, but gel coloring often provides a more vibrant red hue without adding extra liquid to the batter.
What if I don't have ramekins?
A muffin tin can be used as a substitute, though you will need to reduce the baking time significantly.
Can the batter be made in advance?
You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours, but it is best to bake the cakes fresh.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
What is the best way to reheat these cakes?
Reheat in the microwave for 10 to 20 seconds to melt the center without overcooking the exterior.
Can I use a different type of chocolate in the batter?
Yes, dark or semi-sweet chocolate can be used instead of white chocolate for a more traditional chocolate taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What makes this recipe 'red velvet' specifically?
The combination of a small amount of cocoa powder, red coloring, and its signature velvet-like crumb.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
You can reduce it slightly, but sugar is necessary for the structure and to balance the bitterness of the cocoa.
What happens if I overmix the batter?
Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture rather than the light and tender crumb expected of red velvet.
Can I add nuts to the center?
While not traditional, you could add finely chopped nuts to the batter for an added crunch.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This specific recipe makes four individual servings.
What type of cocoa powder is best?
Standard unsweetened cocoa powder works perfectly for this recipe.
Is this dessert suitable for special occasions?
Yes, its vibrant color and molten center make it an ideal romantic treat for Valentine's Day or anniversaries.