Description
Craving something rich, gooey, and chocolaty? These Mini Chocolate Lava Cakes made in the air fryer are your dream dessert come true. With a warm, molten chocolate center and soft, cake-like exterior, these little indulgences are perfect for date night, special occasions, or a late-night sweet fix.
The best part? No oven needed! With just a few pantry staples and an air fryer, you can whip up restaurant-quality lava cakes in under 20 minutes. You’ll be amazed by how easy and decadent these are.
Ingredients
Makes 4 mini lava cakes:
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½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
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¼ cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing ramekins)
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2 large eggs
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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⅓ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
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¼ tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
Optional Toppings:
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Vanilla ice cream
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Fresh berries
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Whipped cream
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Mint leaves
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Chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Grease
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Generously grease the ramekins with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate & Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter.
Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
Add the flour and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Fill the Ramekins
Divide the batter evenly between the greased ramekins, filling them about ¾ full.
Step 5: Air Fry
Place the ramekins in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch.
Air fry at 350°F for 8–9 minutes. The tops should look set but slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures a molten core.
(Note: Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.)
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the lava cakes cool for 1–2 minutes in the ramekins.
Gently run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert each cake onto a plate.
Dust with powdered sugar and top with ice cream, berries, or whipped cream as desired.
Notes
Don’t Overbake – The key to a molten center is slightly underbaking.
Grease Well – This makes unmolding easy and keeps the cakes intact.
Use Good Chocolate – Quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference.
Serve Immediately – These are best enjoyed warm when the centers are gooey.
Air Fryer Space – Don’t overcrowd; air needs to circulate around each ramekin.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Cuisine: American