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Decadent Red Velvet Molten Lava Cakes for Two

red velvet molten lava cakes - featured image

A quick and indulgent dessert recipe for two featuring rich red velvet cake with a molten cream cheese center, perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (40g)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and generously butter the ramekins. Dust lightly with flour or cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the cream cheese swirl by mixing the softened cream cheese with 1 teaspoon of powdered sugar until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter with sugar until glossy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, whisking until smooth and uniform in color.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir gently until just combined.
  6. Spoon half of the batter evenly into each ramekin. Drop a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture into the center of each, then cover with the remaining batter. Smooth the tops gently.
  7. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are set and slightly firm but centers remain soft and jiggly.
  8. Let the cakes cool for 2-3 minutes before running a knife around the edges to loosen. Invert carefully onto plates and serve immediately.

Notes

Use room-temperature eggs for smoother batter. Keep an eye on baking time to maintain a gooey molten center. Grease and dust ramekins well for easy release. For gluten-free, substitute almond or coconut flour. For dairy-free, use coconut oil and dairy-free cream cheese. Baking time may vary slightly depending on oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet, molten lava cake, dessert for two, quick dessert, cream cheese swirl, easy baking, date night dessert