Description Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this S’mores Lava Cake. Combining the classic flavors of s’mores – rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers – this lava cake offers a warm, decadent experience in every bite. The molten chocolate center oozes out as you break into the cake, perfectly complemented by the toasted marshmallow drizzle. It’s an easy-to-make treat that brings the campfire experience right to your kitchen, perfect for cozy nights in or a special dessert for friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake, ensuring it holds its shape while maintaining a soft texture.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor that is the base of our s’mores experience. High-quality cocoa powder will enhance the overall taste.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moistness, balancing the bitterness of the cocoa.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Leavening agent that helps the cake rise, creating a light and airy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, particularly the chocolate, and balances the sweetness.
- 1/3 cup milk: Adds moisture to the cake, helping to create a smooth batter and tender crumb. Whole milk is recommended for a richer flavor, but any milk will work.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture, contributing to the cake’s overall decadent texture. Melting the butter ensures it mixes evenly into the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the other flavors, adding a subtle warmth and complexity to the cake.
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake, adding texture and intense chocolate flavor.
- 6 squares milk chocolate: Inserted into the center of the cake to create the molten lava effect. Use high-quality milk chocolate for the best flavor and melt.
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs: Creates a delicious, crunchy base for the cake, mimicking the classic s’mores graham cracker.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: Divided use; some are toasted on top of the cake, and the rest are melted into a drizzle. They provide the signature s’mores marshmallow flavor and texture.
Preparation:
Before you start, gather all your ingredients and equipment. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Make sure your oven is preheating correctly to ensure the cake bakes evenly.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the cake cooks evenly, with a set edge and a molten center.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these together thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Add the wet ingredients: milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Step 4: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without deflating it.
Step 5: Grease an oven-safe ramekin. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal. Sprinkle the bottom with graham cracker crumbs, creating a s’mores-inspired base.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared ramekin. Make a slight indentation in the center of the batter and insert the milk chocolate square. This will create the molten lava center.
Step 7: Bake for 12-15 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly molten. Keep a close eye on the cake to prevent overbaking.
Step 8: During the last 2 minutes of baking, scatter half of the mini marshmallows across the top of the cake to toast slightly. This adds a visually appealing and flavorful toasted marshmallow topping.
Step 9: While the cake is baking, melt the remaining marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
Step 10: Once the cake is out of the oven, drizzle the melted marshmallows over the top. Let it cool slightly before serving to prevent burning your mouth.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This S’mores Lava Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate and toasted marshmallow brings back nostalgic memories of campfires and s’mores around the firepit. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for satisfying those sudden sweet cravings. Plus, the single-serving size means you can enjoy a decadent treat without the temptation of leftovers. The molten center and the textural contrast between the crunchy graham cracker base and the soft cake make every bite a delightful surprise.
Cooking Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm, straight from the oven, for the ultimate molten experience.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to create a cold and creamy contrast to the warm cake.
- Garnish with extra graham cracker crumbs or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for added visual appeal.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for a complete dessert experience.
Tips:
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. The better the chocolate, the richer the lava cake will be.
- Don’t overbake the cake. The center should be molten for the perfect lava effect.
- Adjust the baking time based on your oven. Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye on the cake to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter.
- If you don’t have ramekins, you can use a muffin tin, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
12-15 minutes
Total Time:
22-25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving Protein: Approximately 6-8 grams Sodium: Approximately 200-250 mg
Conclusion
The S’mores Lava Cake with Toasted Marshmallow Drizzle is a delightful treat that combines the best flavors of s’mores in a warm, gooey, and irresistible dessert. It’s easy to make, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a little bit of campfire magic right in your own kitchen.
Questions and Answers
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While the lava cake is best served fresh and warm, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pour the batter into the ramekin and bake as directed. Keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted slightly if the batter is cold.
- Can I use different types of chocolate? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate to suit your preferences. Dark chocolate will create a richer, more intense flavor, while white chocolate will offer a sweeter, creamier taste. You can also mix and match different types of chocolate for a unique flavor combination.
- What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs? If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs on hand, you can substitute them with crushed digestive biscuits, crushed cookies, or even a sprinkle of flour. The graham cracker crumbs add a nice texture and flavor, but the cake will still be delicious without them.
- How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning when toasting them on top of the cake? To prevent the marshmallows from burning, make sure to add them during the last 2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on them and remove the cake from the oven as soon as they are lightly toasted. You can also use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows for more control over the browning process.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be vegan by making a few simple substitutions. Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan chocolate. You can also find vegan marshmallows or make your own using a vegan marshmallow recipe. Be sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they are vegan-friendly.
