When it comes to festive desserts, nothing beats the combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. These Peppermint Chocolate Lava Cakes are perfect for the holiday season, offering a gooey molten center with a burst of peppermint flavor. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple to prepare, making them a must-have on your dessert table.
Ingredients:
For the Lava Cakes:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing ramekins
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
For the Garnish:
- Powdered sugar
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ramekins:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Generously grease 4 ramekins with butter and dust lightly with cocoa powder to prevent sticking. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet.
2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chopped chocolate.
- Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
3. Make the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture, stirring until combined.
- Gently fold in the flour and peppermint extract, being careful not to overmix.
4. Fill and Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains soft and gooey.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes rest for 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve:
- Carefully run a knife around the edges of each ramekin to loosen the cakes.
- Invert the ramekins onto serving plates and gently lift to release the cakes.
- Dust with powdered sugar, sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies, and top with whipped cream if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 6g
Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
Pro Tips:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
- Check for Doneness: The key to perfect lava cakes is a gooey center. Keep an eye on the baking time and remove the cakes promptly.
- Peppermint Intensity: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste. A little goes a long way!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Peppermint Chocolate Lava Cakes are a delightful blend of warm, molten chocolate and cool, festive peppermint. They’re quick to prepare but deliver a big impact, making them a go-to dessert for any holiday occasion.
Add this recipe to your holiday repertoire and watch as these indulgent treats disappear in no time. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, these lava cakes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your festivities!
