Red Velvet Lava Cake

Name: Red Velvet Lava Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp red food coloring; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your senses with this luscious Red Velvet Lava Cake, featuring a rich and velvety chocolate center that oozes with flavor. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert at home, this recipe combines the classic charm of red velvet with an indulgent molten center that will impress friends and family alike. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-17T04:46:46.147Z

This luscious Red Velvet Lava Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate. The combination of red velvet and molten chocolate center makes it an unforgettable dessert.

The Magic of Red Velvet

Red velvet cake is known for its striking color and unique flavor profile. This dessert not only tantalizes the taste buds but also captivates the eyes. The combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk gives red velvet its signature taste, while the vibrant red hue brings a festive spirit to any occasion. Each slice of this cake is an invitation to indulge, making it a favorite for celebrations, anniversaries, and special gatherings.

This cake's visual appeal is enhanced by its beautiful layers, creating a stunning presentation for your guests. The rich, velvety texture adds to the overall experience, ensuring that every forkful is a delightful treat. By combining traditional red velvet with a gooey molten center, this recipe elevates the classic to new heights, guaranteeing that your dessert will be the talk of the evening.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Red Velvet Lava Cake, simplicity is key. Pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The cold ice cream melts slightly upon contact with the warm cake, enhancing every bite with a creamy richness. You might also consider adding fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to elevate the presentation even further.

For a personal touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving. This not only adds to the visual allure but also introduces a hint of sweetness that complements the decadent cake. If you're feeling adventurous, serve the lava cake with flavored whipped cream, like peppermint or orange zest, for a unique twist that will surprise and delight your guests.

Tips for Perfecting Your Lava Cake

To achieve that perfect molten center, precise baking time is essential. Bake the cakes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft; typically, this requires a baking time of just 12-15 minutes. It's crucial to monitor them closely, as even a minute too long can transform your irresistible lava into a traditional cake without the gooey center.

Additionally, ensure your ramekins are well-greased to allow for easy removal after baking. This will help maintain the cake's shape and ensure that the molten center remains intact when inverted onto the plate. Practicing this recipe a few times will help you master the timing and presentation, allowing you to serve a show-stopping dessert that your friends and family will love.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp red food coloring
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

For the Molten Center

4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you begin for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Molten Center

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.

Combine for Baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease four ramekins and pour half of the batter into each. Add a spoonful of the molten chocolate mixture into the center, then cover it with the remaining batter.

Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the center is soft. Let them cool for 1 minute before inverting onto plates.

Serve immediately for the best molten experience!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Red Velvet Lava Cake, don’t worry! You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to cover the ramekins tightly to maintain freshness. When you're ready to indulge again, reheating should be done cautiously. Use a microwave at low power in 15-second increments to avoid overcooking.

For longer storage, consider wrapping the unbaked batter without the molten center in plastic wrap and freezing it. This way, you can enjoy a homemade dessert anytime with minimal effort. Just thaw the batter overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and follow the original baking instructions for a delicious and spontaneous treat.

Alternative Ingredient Options

Feel free to experiment with various types of chocolate for the molten center. While dark chocolate adds a rich depth of flavor, milk chocolate or even white chocolate can be used for a sweeter, more indulgent experience. Always choose high-quality chocolate, as the taste will directly impact your cake’s flavor profile.

For those seeking a healthier twist, consider using yogurt or applesauce in place of butter to lower the fat content, or opt for coconut milk instead of heavy cream in the melted chocolate mixture. These substitutions can provide a different flavor while still yielding a decadent dessert, making it suitable for various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Perfect Pairings

Red Velvet Lava Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic choice, serve it with a rich, bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a sweet Dessert Wine. These options enhance the cake's flavor while complementing the sweetness and richness of the dessert.

If you're looking for a non-alcoholic pairing, consider a refreshing iced coffee or a luscious hot cocoa. Both drinks offer a comforting balance to the cake, making it an excellent choice for cozy gatherings or special celebrations. Experimenting with these pairings can turn your dessert experience into a memorable culinary adventure for all who partake!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these in advance?

You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.