Lemon Lava Cakes bring a refreshing twist to the beloved chocolate lava cake, blending the bright, tangy flavors of lemon with the rich, satisfying texture of molten cake. Perfect for any occasion, these individual desserts will dazzle your guests with their vibrant flavor and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 4 whole eggs
- 2 additional egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to a hot 425°F (218°C). Generously butter and sugar-coat six ramekins, tapping out any excess sugar. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a delightful sugary crust to the cakes.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Keep an eye on it to ensure it melts without browning, which could alter the flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the melted butter. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring no lumps remain. The zest is key here, as it infuses the batter with a deep lemon flavor.
- Mix Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will add richness and structure to your lava cakes.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the egg mixture to the saucepan containing the butter mixture. Stir continuously while pouring to blend the ingredients smoothly and to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. The edges should be firm, but the center should still be slightly soft to the touch, allowing for that classic lava-like flow when cut open.
- Serve with Style: Allow the cakes to cool for a few minutes before carefully unmolding them. This rest period helps the cakes set enough to hold their shape but not too long that the lava solidifies. Dust each cake with powdered sugar and garnish with a fresh slice of lemon to enhance the lemony flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 290 calories. This treat is best enjoyed in moderation, giving you a burst of flavor without a lot of guilt.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Lava Cakes
- Cooling Time: Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for just a few minutes after baking. This helps them firm up enough to unmold without breaking apart.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm to ensure the center remains soft and molten. These cakes are ideal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the tangy lemon flavor.
- Flavor Variation: For an extra citrus twist, consider mixing a little orange zest into the batter or drizzling the finished cakes with a simple citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and more lemon juice.
Lemon Lava Cakes are not just a dessert, they’re an experience. Each bite is a mix of sweet and tangy sensations, making them a sophisticated addition to any dining occasion. Whether you’re capping off a dinner party or treating yourself to a luxurious dessert, these lemon lava cakes promise a memorable and deliciously tart finale.