Lava Brownies are the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie only to be met with a warm, molten chocolate center that oozes out like lava. These decadent treats combine the best of two worlds: the chewy, dense texture of classic brownies and the indulgent flow of a molten lava cake. They’re simple to make but look and taste like something from a high-end restaurant. Perfect for a romantic dinner, special celebration, or cozy night in, Lava Brownies deliver comfort and luxury in every bite. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these gooey delights and make any occasion feel extra special.
What Makes This Dessert Special?
Lava Brownies take everything you love about brownies and elevate it with a surprise molten center. They’re rich, gooey, and deeply chocolatey. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make—no fancy equipment or techniques required. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that never fails to impress.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6 individual brownies
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: extra chocolate chunks or ganache for the molten center
Instructions
1. Melt the Base
In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the butter and ¾ cup of chocolate chips until smooth. Stir occasionally and let cool slightly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and slightly fluffy. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Assemble and Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a muffin tin or ramekins. Fill each cavity halfway with brownie batter, place a chunk of chocolate or spoonful of ganache in the center, then cover with more batter. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are set but the center is still soft. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Peanut Butter Center: Add a dollop of peanut butter in the center instead of chocolate.
- Salted Caramel Lava: Use a spoonful of caramel sauce for a sweet-salty twist.
- Espresso Brownies: Add ½ tsp instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
- Flavored Ganache: Use mint or orange-flavored chocolate for a seasonal variation.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- Muffin tin or ramekins
- Oven
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: ~320
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 19g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 26g
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for 4–5 days; reheat before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked filled brownies. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.
- Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds to re-melt the center before serving.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years of experience in the kitchen, I’ve tried countless brownie recipes, but Lava Brownies remain one of my absolute favorites. There’s something magical about cutting into a warm brownie and watching that molten center spill out. They’re always a hit—whether I’m making them for a dinner party or as a quick midweek indulgence.
Conclusion
Lava Brownies are the perfect blend of rich flavor and gooey texture, offering an elevated twist on a beloved classic. They’re simple to make but incredibly satisfying to serve, whether it’s for a gathering or a quiet night in. Try them once, and you’ll see why they’re a must-have in every dessert lover’s rotation.
Lava Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the butter and ¾ cup of chocolate chips until smooth. Stir occasionally and let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and slightly fluffy. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a muffin tin or ramekins. Fill each cavity halfway with brownie batter, place a chunk of chocolate or spoonful of ganache in the center, then cover with more batter. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are set but the center is still soft. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for 4–5 days; reheat before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked filled brownies. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.
- Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds to re-melt the center before serving.
