Deep Dish Brown Butter Molten Lava Cake
This Deep Dish Brown Butter Molten Lava Cake is the ultimate indulgent dessert! Made with rich brown butter, it features a gooey molten center and a decadent flavor. Served warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, it’s the perfect treat for chocolate lovers and special occasions.
If you try out this recipe, I’d love to see it! Leave a comment with a star rating below and tag @wellmadebykiley on Instagram and hashtag it #wellmadebykiley
Ingredients You Need:
Full ingredients and recipe are in the recipe card below. Read through this section for all the ingredients substitution and baking tips!
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Salt
Salted butter
Dark chocolate chips
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Powdered sugar, for serving
Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Why You’ll Love a Deep Dish Brown Butter Molten Lava Cake:
Decadent Flavor: The nutty richness of brown butter enhances the classic molten lava cake, adding a deep, complex flavor that’s utterly indulgent.
Gooey Molten Center: Each bite reveals a luscious, molten chocolate center that’s irresistibly rich and satisfying.
Perfectly Warm Dessert: Served warm, the cake’s gooey texture pairs beautifully with the creamy, cold vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Ideal for Chocolate Lovers: Packed with intense chocolate flavor, this dessert is a dream come true for anyone who loves rich, decadent treats.
Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its luxurious appearance, this deep dish lava cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for dinner parties or date nights.
Customizable Presentation: Top with a drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a few fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its indulgent flavors and warm, gooey center make it a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a splash of liqueur for a more sophisticated twist.
Great for Special Occasions: Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or a holiday, this dessert makes every celebration feel extra special.
Comfort in a Dish: Its warm, gooey texture and rich flavor make it the ultimate comfort dessert for cozy evenings.
Tips for Making a Deep Dish Brown Butter Molten Lava Cake:
Use High-Quality Chocolate: Choose high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for the richest flavor and gooey molten center.
Brown the Butter Correctly: Cook the butter over medium heat until it’s golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it, as this will affect the flavor.
Prepare the Baking Dish Properly: Grease the baking dish or ramekin thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the cake releases easily.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the ingredients just until combined to maintain the cake’s tender texture and ensure the molten center forms.
Check Baking Time Carefully: Keep a close eye on the cake while baking. Remove it from the oven as soon as the edges are set, but the center is still slightly jiggly to achieve the perfect gooey consistency.
Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool for 2-3 minutes after baking to help it set slightly and make it easier to serve without losing its molten center.
Serve Warm for the Best Experience: This dessert is at its best when served warm, as the molten center is gooey and the contrast with the cold vanilla ice cream is most pronounced.
Use an Oven Thermometer: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate to avoid overbaking or underbaking the cake.
Customize the Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce, or garnish with fresh berries for an elegant finish.
Make Ahead Option: Prepare the batter in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake just before serving for a fresh, warm dessert.
Serve with Quality Ice Cream: Pair with a rich, creamy vanilla ice cream to complement the warm, chocolatey flavor of the cake.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Add a pinch of espresso powder or a splash of liqueur to the batter for an extra depth of flavor.
How to Store a Deep Dish Brown Butter Molten Lava Cake:
Short-Term Room Temperature Storage: If serving within a few hours, cover the baked cake loosely with foil and keep it at room temperature. Reheat just before serving for a gooey center.
Refrigerate for Next-Day Use: Cover the baked cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to restore the molten texture.
Freeze Individual Portions: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the baked cake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Store for up to 2 months.
Reheating from Frozen: Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may overcook the molten center.
Store Unbaked Batter for Fresh Baking: Pour the batter into a greased baking dish or ramekins, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the refrigerator, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Keep Ice Cream Separate: Store the vanilla ice cream in the freezer until ready to serve. Pair with freshly reheated cake for the best contrast of warm and cold textures.
Reheat Gently for Gooey Center: To maintain the molten center, reheat baked cake carefully in the oven at a low temperature rather than in the microwave, which can cook the gooey center.
FAQs:
Q: What makes this lava cake special?
A: This molten lava cake is made with rich brown butter, giving it a nutty, caramelized flavor that elevates the classic chocolate dessert. Served warm with vanilla ice cream, it’s a decadent treat.
Q: How do I achieve the perfect molten center?
A: Bake the cake just until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly. This ensures a gooey molten center while keeping the outer cake soft and tender.
Q: Can I use any type of chocolate for this recipe?
A: High-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate is recommended for the richest flavor. Avoid using milk chocolate as it may make the cake too sweet.
Q: Do I need special equipment to make this cake?
A: No special equipment is needed. You can use a deep baking dish or individual ramekins for smaller portions.
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore the gooey texture.
Q: Can I freeze this lava cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked lava cake portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Q: How should I serve this cake?
A: Serve the cake warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect contrast between the hot molten center and the cold ice cream.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat the cake?
A: Reheat individual portions in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-12 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can overcook the molten center.
Q: Can I add extra flavors to the batter?
A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of espresso powder for depth, a splash of liqueur for sophistication, or a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Check out my other chocolate recipes on Instagram:
Make sure to tag me @wellmadebykiley on Instagram and leave a review or comment if you make this deep dish brown butter molten lava cake. Happy baking!
