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Decadent Red Velvet Lava Cakes for Two

red velvet lava cakes - featured image

These decadent red velvet lava cakes feature a molten chocolate center and a tender, velvety cake, perfect for romantic evenings or a cozy treat. Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients, they deliver indulgent comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup sugar (white granulated)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or plain yogurt as substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and butter your ramekins generously. Optionally dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking and add a slight crust.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined but not grainy. Add egg, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and vibrant red.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until no flour streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Fold in softened cream cheese just enough to create little pockets in the batter.
  6. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter into the bottom of each ramekin. Add 2 tablespoons of semisweet chocolate chips in the center. Cover with remaining batter, filling ramekins about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly when shaken.
  8. Let cakes cool for 2 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and even rise. Do not overmix to keep cake tender. Butter ramekins well to prevent sticking. Bake on middle rack for even heat. Watch oven closely to avoid overbaking; the center should jiggle slightly. Let rest briefly before serving to thicken molten center. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients as noted in recipe.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet lava cake, molten chocolate cake, dessert for two, easy dessert, romantic dessert, quick dessert, chocolate lava cake