Air Fryer Lava Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s quick, easy, and sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s craving. With a crispy exterior and a molten chocolate center, each bite is pure decadence. The best part? It only takes 20 minutes to make! The air fryer helps create that perfect texture, while the gooey, warm chocolate inside is a true treat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, this dessert is sure to impress. Plus, you can top it with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for even more indulgence!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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3 ounces chocolate (pieces)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 large eggs
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1 large egg white
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon confectioner’s sugar (for dusting)
Directions
1. Prepare the Ramekins:
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Spray two 6-ounce ramekins with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter:
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In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chocolate.
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Melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave for 60-90 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted and combined.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, eggs, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes frothy.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
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Carefully pour the egg and sugar mixture into the melted butter and chocolate mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Add the Flour:
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Use a spatula to fold in the flour with the chocolate batter. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
6. Fill the Ramekins:
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Pour the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins.
7. Air Fry the Lava Cakes:
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Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
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Air fry the lava cakes for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook. The tops should pop up with crispy edges while the centers remain molten.
8. Cool and Flip:
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Allow the ramekins to cool for a minute. Use a thick dish towel to carefully remove the ramekins from the air fryer basket.
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Run a knife along the edges of the cakes to loosen them from the ramekins, then carefully flip them onto a serving plate.
9. Garnish and Serve:
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Dust with confectioner’s sugar and add any toppings of your choice like vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or chocolate sauce.
10. Enjoy:
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Serve your Air Fryer Lava Cakes immediately and enjoy the molten chocolate goodness inside!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2 lava cakes
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Toppings: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
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Flavored Lava Cakes: Add a teaspoon of coffee or orange zest to the batter for a different flavor twist.
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Mini Lava Cakes: If you don’t have 6-ounce ramekins, use smaller ones to make mini lava cakes. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: These cakes are best enjoyed immediately after baking. However, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the lava cakes in the air fryer for a few minutes at 370°F until the center is warm and gooey again.
FAQs
1. Can I make lava cakes ahead of time?
These cakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, pour the batter into the ramekins and air fry.
2. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you prefer, such as dark or milk chocolate, for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I use silicone baking cups instead of ramekins?
Yes, silicone baking cups work well as an alternative to ramekins. Just make sure they are oven-safe.
4. How do I know when the lava cakes are done?
The tops should rise and become firm, with a slight jiggle in the center. If the cakes are overcooked, the molten center won’t form.
5. Can I freeze these lava cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked batter in ramekins. When ready to cook, simply air fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
6. Can I use an electric mixer to beat the eggs?
It’s best to avoid using an electric mixer, as it can cause the batter to become too airy. Using a whisk by hand will help keep the cakes dense with a molten center.
7. How do I remove the lava cakes from the ramekin?
After cooling for a minute, run a knife around the edge of the cake to loosen it, then carefully flip it onto a plate.
8. Can I make this recipe in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake these lava cakes in a conventional oven at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure the centers remain molten.
9. Can I make these lava cakes without eggs?
Eggs are essential for the structure of the lava cakes. However, you could try using an egg substitute, such as flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, though the texture may vary.
10. How can I prevent my lava cakes from overcooking?
Watch them closely during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The lava cakes should have a firm top with a soft and molten center, so be sure not to overcook them.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Lava Cake is a decadent and quick dessert that satisfies all your chocolate cravings. With a rich, molten center and crispy edges, it’s a perfect treat for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s so easy to make in the air fryer with just a few simple ingredients! Indulge in the gooey, chocolatey goodness and top it with your favorite garnishes for the ultimate dessert experience.
Print
Air Fryer Lava Cake
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Air Fryer Lava Cake is the perfect dessert to satisfy any chocolate lover’s craving. With a molten chocolate center and airy, rich chocolate cake on the outside, this decadent treat is a quick and easy way to enjoy a gourmet dessert right at home. Cooked in the air fryer in just 10 minutes, these lava cakes are a great option for impressing guests or treating yourself to a little indulgence without the need for an oven.
Ingredients
3 ounces chocolate (pieces)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 large eggs
1 large egg white
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon confectioner’s sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare the Ramekins:
Spray two 6-ounce ramekins with nonstick cooking spray and set them aside.
Melt the Chocolate and Butter:
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chocolate.
Microwave in 60-90 second intervals, stirring every 30 seconds, until fully melted and combined.
Mix the Eggs and Sugar:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg white, eggs, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes frothy.
Combine the Mixtures:
Carefully pour the egg mixture into the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Stir to combine.
Add the Flour:
Use a spatula to fold the flour into the chocolate batter. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Fill the Ramekins:
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins.
Air Fry:
Preheat the air fryer to 370°F.
Air fry the molten lava cakes for 8-10 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don’t overcook. The tops should rise and become crispy.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the ramekins to cool for a minute. Carefully remove them from the air fryer using a thick dish towel.
Run a sharp knife around the edge of the cake to loosen it, then carefully flip it onto a serving plate.
Optional Garnishes:
Dust with confectioner’s sugar or top with chocolate sprinkles, chocolate cream, vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Notes
Cooking Tip: Keep an eye on the lava cakes to avoid overcooking. The edges should be crispy while the center remains molten.
Alternative Bakeware: If you don’t have oven-safe ramekins, you can use silicone baking cups instead.
No Electric Mixer: Avoid using an electric mixer or beater, as it will remove the air from the batter, affecting the texture of the lava cakes.
Air Fryer Adjustments: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and wattage of your air fryer. You might need to adjust the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
