Are you dreaming of a warm, gooey chocolate cake? One that melts in your mouth with each delicious bite? Then you're in for a treat! This recipe recreates the famous Chocolate Melting Cake served on Carnival Cruise Lines, bringing a taste of vacation right to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight indulgence. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this incredibly rich and satisfying dessert!
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease and flour a 6-inch ramekin or oven-safe mug. This will prevent sticking and ensure your cake comes out beautifully.
Melt the chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt them gently in a double boiler on the stovetop.
Combine wet ingredients: Whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until well combined. Slowly pour in the melted chocolate mixture, whisking continuously until smooth and well incorporated.
Add dry ingredients: Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared ramekin. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft and jiggly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the ramekin for a few minutes before carefully inverting it onto a plate. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality chocolate: The flavor of the chocolate will be prominent, so using high-quality bittersweet chocolate will make a big difference.
- Don't overbake: It's better to slightly underbake the cake than overbake it. The center should still be slightly molten for that signature melting effect.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.
- Grease and flour thoroughly: This simple step will prevent your cake from sticking to the ramekin and ensure easy removal.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy kick.
- Make it a lava cake: Use a larger ramekin and bake for a longer time to create a more substantial lava cake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Fat: Approximately 25-30g Sugar: Approximately 30-35g Protein: Approximately 5-7g
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing the delicious taste of a Carnival cruise to your own home. It's a simple recipe, perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers, making it a delightful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes for healthy meals. Enjoy this decadent and delicious chocolate melting cake!