Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe – Treat Indulgently

Who doesn't love indulging in a rich, gooey chocolate dessert? That's precisely what Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake offers. It's the kind of dessert that whispers sweet nothings to your inner chocoholic. 

Today, I’m taking you on a delightful journey through this captivating creation, sharing my personal experiences, useful insights, and tips to make this dessert not just a treat, but an event in your kitchen.

What is Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake?

At first glance, Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake appears to be a simple dessert: a round cake with a tantalizing crust. But as the fork hits the cake, the inside oozes rich, molten chocolate. 

This amazing transformation sparks joy in anyone with a sweet tooth—there’s truly nothing like that warm, flowing chocolate to brighten your day.

To give credit where it’s due, the inspiration for this cake comes from the beloved Ghirardelli Chocolate brand, renowned for its high-quality chocolate products. It’s rich and decadent, and every bite feels like a hug from the inside out. 

When I first encountered the Ghirardelli Lava Cake, it was at a dinner party. One forkful, and I was instantly hooked. After experimenting with several recipes, I honed in on my personal favorite: plush, rich cake that flows with velvety chocolate.

Why You'll Love This Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake

Decadent Flavor: The intense chocolate flavor from Ghirardelli chocolate elevates the cake beyond your typical dessert.

Easy to Make: While it might look fancy, the lava cake is surprisingly simple to whip up. Even if you think you're not a baker, you can tackle this with ease.

Impressive Presentation: This cake is a showstopper. When you cut into it and that molten chocolate flows, your guests will be wowed.

Versatile Serving Options: Whether you want it plain, topped with ice cream, or paired with fresh berries, this dessert adapts beautifully.

As the aroma of chocolate fills your kitchen during baking, I promise you will feel like a culinary magician.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to conjure this chocolate masterpiece. The quality ingredients matter, especially the chocolate. I recommend using Ghirardelli’s baking chocolate for the best results.

For Ganache:

1/4 cup rich heavy cream

2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, baking bar (60% cacao)

For the Cake:

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

2 extra egg yolks

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup all-purpose cake flour

4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, baking bar (60% cacao)

1 tablespoon brewed espresso

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

A pinch of sea salt

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s get to the nitty-gritty. The joy of creating this cake lies in the process. It’s an experience that you’ll want to share!

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients on your counter. Familiarize yourself with each element. It’s like loading your toolbelt before a big project. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease your ramekins with butter, then dust them with cocoa powder.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 4 ounces of bittersweet chocolate and 8 tablespoons of butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted. This step is crucial. Achieving that glossy chocolate mixture is essential for your lava cake.

Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Sugar

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and large eggs, along with the extra egg yolks. Whisk until it becomes pale and fluffy. You want to incorporate air into this mixture to create a lighter cake texture.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Carefully fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture. You want to maintain the fluffiness. Next, sprinkle in the flour, salt, vanilla, and espresso. Gently combine until there are no dry flour spots.

Step 5: Fill the Ramekins

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared ramekins, filling each one about 2/3 full. Consider using a ladle to ensure even portions, which helps with cooking consistency.

Step 6: Bake

Place the ramekins on a baking tray and slide them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 12-14 minutes. The edges should be firm, while the center remains slightly wobbly.

Step 7: Prepare the Ganache

While the cakes bake, make the ganache. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just about to simmer. Pour it over the chopped bittersweet chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once the timer goes off, remove the ramekins from the oven and let them cool for 1-2 minutes. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate. Gently tap them to release the cakes.

Drizzle the ganache over the top, and watch that chocolate flow! Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch, if you like.

Tips & Tricks

Creating a beautiful Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake can be simplified with these handy tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and cream are at room temperature for easier blending.

Don’t Over-bake: Keep a close eye on the cakes. Overbaking will turn that glorious molten center into a dry cake.

Chill the Ramekins: If your cakes are cooling too quickly before serving, chill the ramekins slightly before adding your batter.

Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of instant coffee or orange zest to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Just fill the ramekins and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Can I Store Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake?

Storing this luscious dessert isn’t ideal, but it can be done! If you need leftovers (if that ever happens!), cover the ramekins tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

To reheat, pop the ramekin in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious. You want the chocolate melty, not overcooked.

What Can I Serve with Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake?

Pairing your lava cake with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful additions:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The perfect creamy balance.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop on top offers a light touch.
• Chocolate Sauce: For those chocolate lovers looking for even more richness.
• Espresso or Strong Coffee: The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts.

Variations

The beauty of Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake lies in its versatility. Here are some variations you can try to excite your taste buds:

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or hazelnuts into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Raspberry Filling: Before baking, add a spoonful of raspberry jam in the center of the batter for a delightful tart surprise.
• Peppermint Twist: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday-inspired twist.
• Spiced Chocolate: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or chili powder for a warmth that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
• Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce inside before baking for a rich addition that complements the chocolate well.

Conclusion

Baking Ghirardelli Chocolate Lava Cake is more than just creating a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The journey from collecting ingredients to watching the chocolate flow is rewarding. 

Whether you're serving it at a special gathering or enjoying a slice all by yourself, this cake brings comfort and joy. I hope you find as much satisfaction in making this dessert as I did. Remember, every forkful transports you to chocolate heaven. Enjoy the experience and keep those taste buds happy!

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