Forget spending hours in the kitchen – in just a few steps, you’ll be biting into a dessert that looks like it took all day to create. Plus, we’ve got some twists up our sleeve for when you’re feeling adventurous. So, grab your air fryer, and let’s get that amazing chocolate magic happening in your kitchen tonight!

Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7-8 minutes
Total Time: 22-23 minutes
Servings: 4 cakes

Ingredients

Cake:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup finely ground hazelnuts

For Serving (optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream

Instructions

1. Prepare Cake Batter:
   • Melt your chocolate chips and butter together until smooth. You can do this in a microwave or over a double boiler.
   • Whisk the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and salt using a separate bowl until light and fluffy.
   •  Fold in the flour gently, vanilla extract, and ground hazelnuts into the egg mixture.
   • Combine with the melted chocolate mixture.
2. Prep Ramekins:
   • Grease four small ramekins that can fit in your air fryer. Dust them lightly with flour.
3. Fill Ramekins:
   • Divide the batter evenly in your prepared ramekins.
4. Air Fry:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
   • Place the ramekins in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
   • Cook for 7-8 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should remain slightly jiggly.
5. Serve:
   • Let the cakes cool for about a minute.
   • Run a knife around the edges of each cake and invert onto a plate.
   • Serve immediately with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, ice cream, and whipped cream, if desired.

Notes

• Ramekin Size: Ensure the ramekins fit in your air fryer. Smaller air fryers may require smaller ramekins or cooking in batches.
• Cooking Time: Air fryer models may vary in temperature. Check the cakes at 8 minutes and adjust cooking time as needed.
• Serving: These cakes are best served immediately to enjoy the gooey, molten center.

Whipped up this air fryer chocolate lava cake and it’s a hit? Share the love on Pinterest! Show your followers how to rock the kitchen with minimal effort and maximum chocolate – because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to be the hero of dessert time?

Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cake Recipe Variations

1. White Chocolate Raspberry Lava Cake:

• Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
• Add a tablespoon of raspberry puree into the center of each cake before baking for a fruity twist.

2. Mocha Lava Cake:

• Add 1 tsp of instant coffee or espresso powder to the chocolate mixture for a mocha flavor.
• Serve with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra richness.

3. Nutty Almond Delight:

• Replace ground hazelnuts with ground almonds.
• Add a few drops of almond extract to improve the nutty flavor.

4. Spicy Cinnamon Lava Cake:

• Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.
• This pairs well with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream on top.

5. Vegan and Gluten-Free Option:

• Use vegan chocolate chips and a plant-based butter substitute.
• Swap the eggs with a vegan egg substitute and use gluten-free flour.

6. Salted Caramel Lava Cake:

• Place a small piece of soft caramel candy in the center of each cake before baking.
• Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the batter for a salty-sweet contrast.

7. Peppermint Holiday Lava Cake:

• Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture.
• Garnish with crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

8. Peanut Butter Lava Cake:

• Add a spoonful of peanut butter in the center of each ramekin before adding the batter.
• The peanut butter will melt into a gooey center as the cake cooks.

9. Orange Zest Lava Cake:

• Stir in the zest of one orange into the batter for a citrusy note.
• Serve with a small scoop of orange-flavored sorbet for a refreshing twist.

10. Boozy Lava Cake:

• Add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur (like Baileys, Kahlua, or Grand Marnier) to the chocolate mixture.
• This variation is perfect for adult gatherings and adds a sophisticated flavor.