White Chocolate Lava Cakes

Name: White Chocolate Lava Cakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Collection

I absolutely love making White Chocolate Lava Cakes for special occasions because they are a delightful treat that never fails to impress. The molten center of rich white chocolate paired with a perfectly baked outer layer creates a luxurious dessert experience. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, and I often find myself savoring each bite while sharing stories with friends and family around the table.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:29:35.566Z

One afternoon, I decided to experiment with a classic dessert by infusing it with a touch of white chocolate. The first time I made these cakes, I was skeptical about achieving that perfect gooey center, but I quickly learned that timing is everything. I baked them just until the edges were firm, while the centers remained soft and molten.

What surprised me the most was how easily the cakes released from the ramekins. I brushed them with butter and dusted with flour beforehand, ensuring a smooth unmolding. Now, these cakes have become a favorite in my household, especially when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent white chocolate flavor with a molten center
Perfectly portioned for individual servings
Impressive enough for dinner parties yet easy to make

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the white chocolate, which provides a rich and creamy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the texture of the cake. Using high-quality white chocolate chips is essential, as cheaper versions may not melt smoothly, leading to a grainy texture. Look for brands with cocoa butter listed in the ingredients; this ensures that your lava cakes have a luxurious mouthfeel and a perfectly molten center.

Unsalted butter plays a pivotal role in this dessert, enhancing the richness without adding unwanted saltiness. You might consider substituting coconut oil for a dairy-free option, though this will slightly alter the flavor profile. Be mindful of carefully measuring both the butter and chocolate, as the balance between these fats dictates how well your cakes rise and maintain that gooey center.

Baking Tips for Perfect Lava Cakes

The timing when baking is critical. If you bake these cakes for too long, you risk losing the molten center, which is the highlight of the dessert. About 11-12 minutes is ideal, but keep a close watch on the edges; they should look set while the middle remains slightly jiggly. If you're uncertain, you can conduct a toothpick test: it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not completely clean.

When greasing the ramekins, ensure an even layer of butter followed by a dusting of flour. This step guarantees that your cakes won’t stick and ensures a clean release when you invert them. If you prefer experimenting with flavors, try adding a pinch of espresso powder or orange zest to the batter to complement the sweetness of the white chocolate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start on your White Chocolate Lava Cakes:

For the Cakes

1 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure to check your ingredients before beginning the baking process for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect White Chocolate Lava Cakes:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with flour, tapping out the excess.

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Prepare the Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and sugar until thickened. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture and mix until combined. Gently fold in the flour and vanilla extract.

Fill Ramekins

Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.

Bake

Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 11-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is still soft.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let sit for 1 minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges and invert each ramekin onto a plate. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your delicious White Chocolate Lava Cakes while they’re still warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a dollop of raspberry puree or a pinch of sea salt on top before serving for added flavor contrast.

Serving Suggestions

These White Chocolate Lava Cakes are versatile and can be served with various accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm chocolate, while fresh berries provide a tartness that cuts through the richness. I personally enjoy a drizzle of raspberry sauce on top, which not only enhances the aesthetic but also adds a tangy balance to the sweet cake.

For a more decadent experience, consider topping with whipped cream and chocolate shavings or even a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors. Each element on the plate should complement the warm, molten center of the cake, creating a harmonious dessert presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning a special occasion, you can prepare the batter a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate the filled ramekins until you're ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time to accommodate the chilled batter.

Leftover lava cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for a day, though they are best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat, pop them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds on low power. This will help to retain a gooey center, ensuring your dessert remains enjoyable even after a day or two.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate the filled ramekins for up to 24 hours. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What if my cakes don't have a molten center?

Ensure you don’t overbake the cakes. They should be set around the edges but still wobbly in the center when you take them out.

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

You can experiment with dark or milk chocolate, but keep in mind that baking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled lava cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying.