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Homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cakes photo

Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cakes

Indulge in these rich Chocolate Peanut Butter Lava Cakes with gooey centers! Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
  • 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour (divided)
  • 9 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature and divided)
  • 6 oz. German baking chocolate (chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (low-fat or any nut butter)
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 pinch kosher salt

Equipment

  • Ramekins
  • Mixing bowls
  • Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the outer layer of the cakes sets quickly, while the inside remains gooey.
  2. Grease four ramekins with 1 tablespoon of the softened butter and dust with cocoa powder.
  3. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped German baking chocolate and 4 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. Heat gently until melted and smooth, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
  5. In another large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and remaining softened butter. Beat with a whisk until creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  6. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, stirring gently until well combined.
  7. Gradually add the flour and cocoa mixture to the chocolate batter. Use a spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
  8. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins, filling each about halfway. Add a generous dollop of creamy peanut butter in the center of each ramekin, then cover with remaining batter until almost full.
  9. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center still looks soft.
  10. Remove the ramekins from the oven and let them cool for 1-2 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen the cakes. Invert each ramekin onto a plate, give it a gentle tap, and lift off the ramekin to reveal the molten center. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for optimal texture.
  • Underbaking slightly yields the perfect molten center; avoid overbaking.
  • Experiment with different nut butters for unique flavors.