Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake with a Molten Center

1.Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2.Grease four ramekins with butter and dust them with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess. Set aside.

3.In a medium saucepan, melt the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

4.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggs, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy.

5.Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and stir until fully incorporated.

6.Sift the flour and salt into the chocolate mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

7.Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.

8.Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center is still soft and slightly jiggly.

9.Remove from the oven and let the cakes sit for 1 minute. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen them.

10.Invert each ramekin onto a plate and gently lift it off to reveal the molten center. Serve immediately, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.