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Air Fryer Lava Cake

Cook Time 9 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ounces (115 g) dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped (around 60–70% cocoa)
  • 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 large egg yolks (save the whites for another recipe)
  • 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for dusting the ramekins)
  • Butter or nonstick spray (to grease ramekins)
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of salted caramel

Equipment:

  • 2–4 oven-safe ramekins (6–8 ounces each) or silicone molds, mixing bowl, whisk, spatula, and an air fryer with a basket or tray.

Instructions
 

  • Prep the air fryer and ramekins: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Generously grease the ramekins with butter or spray, then dust with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess. This prevents sticking and helps the cakes release cleanly.
  • Melt chocolate and butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together. Use a microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Let it cool for 1–2 minutes so it’s warm, not hot.
  • Whisk eggs, yolks, and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, yolks, and sugar until slightly thick and pale, about 30–45 seconds by hand. Add vanilla and salt.
  • Combine mixtures: Stream the warm chocolate-butter mixture into the egg mixture while whisking. Stir until glossy and uniform.
  • Add flour: Sift in the flour and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix—stop as soon as no streaks remain.
  • Fill ramekins: Divide the batter evenly among prepared ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full. For extra insurance on the molten center, tuck a square of chocolate into the center of each and cover with a little batter.
  • Air fry: Arrange ramekins in the air fryer basket with space between them. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 7–9 minutes. The edges should be set and slightly puffed; the centers should look soft and jiggle lightly.
  • Rest briefly: Let the cakes rest for 1 minute. Run a thin knife around the edges.
  • Invert and serve: Place a small plate over each ramekin, invert, and lift off the ramekin. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately with ice cream or berries.
  • Doneness tip: If your air fryer runs hot, start checking at 6 minutes. If the tops are fully set with no jiggle, they may be overdone; reduce time on your next batch.