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Decadent Chocolate Lava Cookies

decadent chocolate lava cookies - featured image

These decadent chocolate lava cookies feature crisp edges with a molten chocolate center, offering a rich and indulgent homemade treat that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (165g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 1 1/2 cups (270g) bittersweet chocolate chunks or chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and optional 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet batter, mixing just until combined and the flour disappears.
  6. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups bittersweet chocolate chunks.
  7. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm up.
  8. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set but centers are still soft and slightly underbaked.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial to achieve the molten center without spreading. Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate chunks for best melting and flavor. Watch baking time carefully to avoid overbaking. Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; add 1-2 minutes to baking time if baking from frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate lava cookies, molten chocolate cookies, easy chocolate cookies, homemade chocolate treats, decadent cookies