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Mini Lava Cakes in Muffin Tins Recipe

Mini Lava Cakes in Muffin Tins Recipe

Gooey, rich, and irresistibly small — these mini lava cakes in muffin tins are perfect for portion control, fancy desserts, or a midnight chocolate fix. Quick to bake and fun to serve.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Course Dessert, Snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

List (for 8–10 mini lava cakes):

  • 1/4 cup 60g unsalted butter
  • 3 oz 85g high-quality dark chocolate (60–70%)
  • 1 whole egg
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 3 tbsp 40g granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract optional
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/4 tsp espresso powder
  • Pinch of cayenne or cinnamon

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Pan

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
  • Grease mini muffin tin cups with butter or spray.
  • Optional: dust each slot with cocoa powder.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

  • In a small bowl, add 3 oz chopped dark chocolate and 1/4 cup butter.
  • Microwave in short bursts or use a double boiler.
  • Stir until melted and smooth. Cool slightly.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

  • In another bowl, whisk 1 egg, 1 egg yolk, 3 tbsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp vanilla (if using).
  • Beat until slightly thick and pale.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

  • Slowly pour in the melted chocolate-butter mix while whisking.
  • Mix until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Sift in 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and optional espresso/cinnamon.
  • Fold gently until just combined.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tins

  • Spoon batter into muffin cups, about 3/4 full.
  • You’ll get about 8–10 mini cakes.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake at 425°F for 5–6 minutes.
  • Edges should look set; center should jiggle slightly.

Step 8: Cool and Release

  • Let sit for 1–2 minutes.
  • Run a knife around the edges and gently invert onto a tray.

Notes

Chilling the batter for 5–10 mins before baking gives you a better lava effect — especially on warm days.
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