DESSERTS

Chocolate Lava Cookies: 24 Decadent Melting Center Treats

by basmer

27 de February de 2026

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Chocolate Lava Cookies are a decadent treat that combines the best elements of cookies and molten chocolate cake. With a rich, creamy dark chocolate ganache center enveloped in a soft cocoa-infused cookie, these cookies are a dessert lover’s dream. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, complemented by a hint of espresso that enhances the chocolate flavor, making them the ideal indulgence for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Lava Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore these cookies. First, they provide a delightful molten center that creates a gooey experience with every bite. Second, the balance of flavors, including the espresso powder, elevates the rich chocolate taste. Third, they are visually stunning when served, dusted with powdered sugar. Fourth, they are surprisingly easy to make, allowing anyone to create a gourmet dessert at home. Fifth, the cookies maintain a soft-baked texture, ensuring they remain tender. Sixth, they are versatile—perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Lastly, these cookies cater to various dietary needs, making them a fantastic choice for everyone.

Ingredients for Chocolate Lava Cookies

Gather these items:

4 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate
½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups plus 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour (270 g)
½ cup plus 2 Tbsp Dutch processed cocoa powder (67 g)
½ – 1 tsp espresso powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp sea salt
1 cup salted butter (227 g), room temperature
1 cup white sugar (200 g)
½ cup light brown sugar (110 g)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1½ tsp vanilla extract
Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Chocolate Lava Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Chop the chocolate into very small pieces and place in a small bowl. Warm the heavy cream in the microwave in 20-second increments until hot but not boiling, about 40-50 seconds.
Step 2: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and fully melted. If some pieces remain, microwave for another 5 seconds and stir again.
Step 3: Refrigerate the ganache for 20-30 minutes until it firms up enough to scoop.
Step 4: Scoop about 24 small dollops (approximately 1 teaspoon each) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 30 minutes to set them firmly. Optionally, roll into balls once set.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
Step 6: In a separate bowl or stand mixer, beat the room temperature butter with white and brown sugars on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 7: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 8: Add the flour mixture in thirds, mixing each addition on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
Step 9: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll into balls. Press your thumb into the center to create a cavity. Insert one frozen ganache dollop inside and cover completely with cookie dough. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 10: Bake for 8-11 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops appear puffy but not wet.
Step 11: Optionally, use a biscuit or cookie cutter to slightly shape the cookies for a neat appearance. Let cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 12: Once completely cooled, sift powdered sugar over the cookies to enhance the molten lava cake effect.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Lava Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Use high quality baking chocolate for better flavor.
Make sure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Do not overbake to keep the center gooey.
For a fun twist, try adding a dash of sea salt on top before serving to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Lava Cookies

Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. Pair them with fresh berries for a refreshing touch, or drizzle them with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. These cookies also make excellent gifts when presented in a decorative box.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Lava Cookies

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to reheat them, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their gooey center. They’re perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm treat anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Lava Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Lava Cookies?

The key is not to overbake them! Monitor the cookies closely and take them out when the edges are set, but the center remains soft and slightly undercooked. This will ensure that molten center you desire.

Can I make Chocolate Lava Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and freeze it before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Lava Cookies?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your oven is preheated and avoid overmixing the dough. Also, use the recommended high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.

Variations of Chocolate Lava Cookies You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors! You can try adding peppermint extract for a festive twist or use white chocolate for a different flavor profile. For a healthier option, consider making Vegan Chocolate Lava Cookies by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal and using dairy-free chocolate.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for a festive treat. If you’re looking for a savory option, consider Korean BBQ Meatballs as a delightful appetizer.

For more information on baking techniques, you can refer to this baking guide from King Arthur Baking.

Chocolate Lava Cookies: 24 Decadent Melting Center Treats

Author: basmer
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Lava Cookies featuring a rich, creamy dark chocolate ganache center enveloped in a soft cocoa-infused cookie.

Instructions

Chop the chocolate into very small pieces and place in a small bowl. Warm the heavy cream in the microwave in 20-second increments until hot but not boiling, about 40-50 seconds.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and fully melted. If some pieces remain, microwave for another 5 seconds and stir again.
Refrigerate the ganache for 20-30 minutes until it firms up enough to scoop.
Scoop about 24 small dollops (approximately 1 teaspoon each) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 30 minutes to set them firmly. Optionally, roll into balls once set.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
In a separate bowl or stand mixer, beat the room temperature butter with white and brown sugars on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Add the flour mixture in thirds, mixing each addition on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll into balls. Press your thumb into the center to create a cavity. Insert one frozen ganache dollop inside and cover completely with cookie dough. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 8-11 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops appear puffy but not wet.
Optionally, use a biscuit or cookie cutter to slightly shape the cookies for a neat appearance. Let cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Once completely cooled, sift powdered sugar over the cookies to enhance the molten lava cake effect.