This Air Fryer Lava Cake is rich, fudgy, and filled with a molten chocolate centerall made in minutes without an oven. A quick, elegant dessert perfect for date night, holidays, or when chocolate cravings hit hard.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – Ready in under 15 minutes
- Restaurant-quality – Gooey center every time
- Small-batch friendly – Perfect for two
- Customizable – Serve plain or dressed up
Ingredients
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter until smooth.
- Stir well and let cool slightly.
- Whisk in the egg, egg yolk, and powdered sugar until combined.
- Add flour, vanilla, and salt; mix until just smooth.
- Grease two small ramekins.
- Divide batter evenly between ramekins.
- Preheat air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
- Place ramekins in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 7–9 minutes, until edges are set but the center is soft.
- Let rest 1 minute, then invert or serve directly.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 small ramekins
Tips & Variations
- Perfect lava center: Do not overcook centers should jiggle slightly.
- Extra chocolate: Press a chocolate square into the center before cooking.
- Flavor twists: Add espresso powder or orange zest.
- Make ahead: Prepare batter and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
- Reheating: Best served fresh; reheating may cook the center.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
- Add fresh berries
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce
Nutrition Facts (Per Cake – Approximate)
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 25g
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Lava Cake is rich, indulgent, and unbelievably easy. Whether you’re making dessert for a special night or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers molten chocolate perfection every single time. Save it, share it, and enjoy
FAQ
Can I make lava cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter and refrigerate. Air fry just before serving.
How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be firm while the center remains soft.
Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Yes, but the cake will be sweeter and less intense.
Why didn’t my cake have a lava center?
It was likely overcooked, reduce the time by 1 minute next round.
Can I make this without ramekins?
Use any small, oven-safe dish that fits your air fryer.