This Chocolate Lava Soufflé is my go-to when I want something elegant, indulgent, and ready in under 30 minutes. With a perfectly crisp outer shell and a decadent, molten center, it’s the ultimate treat for date nights, celebrations, or anytime I need a quick dessert that feels luxurious. Made with dark chocolate, butter, eggs, and just a touch of flour, it’s surprisingly simple — yet totally impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re anything like me, this Chocolate Lava Soufflé will win you over for several reasons:

1. Crispy Outside, Molten Inside – The contrast of textures makes every spoonful irresistible.

2. Ready in Minutes – I can prep and bake this dessert in under 30 minutes.

3. Perfectly Portioned – It makes just the right amount for two or three people — ideal for small gatherings or date nights.

4. Minimal Ingredients – With just a handful of pantry staples, I get a dessert that feels gourmet.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly – I prep the batter ahead and bake it fresh when I’m ready to impress.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

– Dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa)
– Unsalted butter
– Eggs
– Granulated sugar
– All-purpose flour
– Vanilla extract (optional)
– Salt
– Butter and cocoa powder (for greasing ramekins)

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Ramekins
   I preheat the oven to 200°C / 390°F. Then I grease 2–3 ramekins with butter and dust the insides with cocoa powder, tapping out any excess. This helps the soufflés release easily after baking.

2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter
   In a heatproof bowl, I melt the dark chocolate and butter together — either using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second bursts. Once smooth, I let it cool slightly.

3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
   In another bowl, I whisk the eggs, sugar, and optional vanilla for 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and foamy.

4. Combine and Fold
   I gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the whipped eggs. Then I sift in the flour and add a pinch of salt, mixing just until everything is combined — careful not to overmix.

5. Fill and Bake
   I divide the batter evenly between the ramekins, filling each about ¾ full. I bake them for 9–11 minutes until the edges are set but the center is still soft and jiggly.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2–3

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Bake Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Calories per serving: Approx. 350 kcal (varies based on chocolate and toppings)

Variations

– Add a Flavor Twist: Sometimes I add a dash of espresso powder or orange zest to the batter.
– Make it Boozy: A splash of dark rum or coffee liqueur adds a grown-up touch.
– Center Surprise: I place a square of chocolate or a spoon of peanut butter in the center of each ramekin for a hidden surprise.
– Flourless Option: I skip the flour entirely for a more fudgy texture (just reduce baking time slightly).

Storage/Reheating

– Make Ahead: I prepare the batter, pour it into greased ramekins, and refrigerate. When I’m ready to bake, I add an extra minute to the cooking time.
– Leftovers: These are best served immediately, but if I do have any left, I reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back the molten center.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but I find dark chocolate gives a deeper flavor and balances the sweetness better. If I use milk chocolate, I reduce the sugar slightly.

What size ramekins should I use?

I typically use 6-ounce ramekins. This recipe makes 2–3 portions, depending on ramekin size.

Can I freeze the batter?

Yes, I freeze it right in the ramekins (wrapped well), then bake from frozen — just add 2–3 extra minutes to the bake time.

Why did my center overcook?

It’s all about timing. I always keep an eye on the soufflés around the 9-minute mark. Once the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly, I take them out.

What can I serve with it?

I like to dust the top with powdered sugar and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce also elevate the experience.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Lava Soufflé is pure indulgence, made simple. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive, tastes luxurious, and yet takes just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes to prepare. Whether I’m trying to wow guests or treat myself, it never fails. One spoonful into that molten center and I’m hooked — every single time.