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Decadent Copycat Chili’s Molten Lava Cake with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

copycat chilis molten lava cake - featured image

A rich and gooey molten chocolate cake inspired by Chili’s signature dessert, paired perfectly with creamy vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz (170 g) dark chocolate (bittersweet or semi-sweet)
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated white sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Vanilla bean ice cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter the ramekins generously and dust lightly with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
  2. Melt the chocolate and butter together using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar vigorously until pale and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
  4. Slowly fold the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the eggs, being careful not to lose the airiness.
  5. Sift the flour and salt into the bowl and fold gently until just combined.
  6. Divide the batter evenly into prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. Place ramekins on a baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are firm but centers are still jiggly.
  8. Remove from oven and let cakes rest for 1–2 minutes before carefully inverting onto serving plates.
  9. Serve immediately topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and optional powdered sugar or fresh berries.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for best results. Do not overbake to keep the molten center. Butter and cocoa powder ramekins to prevent sticking. Let cakes rest 1-2 minutes before unmolding. Rotate baking sheet halfway if needed for even baking. High-quality dark chocolate enhances flavor. Vegan and gluten-free adaptations are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: molten lava cake, chocolate dessert, copycat recipe, Chili's dessert, vanilla bean ice cream, easy dessert, quick dessert