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Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cake - Rich, Gooey, and Ready Fast

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick; plus a little extra for greasing ramekins)
  • Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate (4 ounces; choose bars over chips for smoother melt)
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
  • Large eggs (2)
  • Large egg yolks (2)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • All-purpose flour (1/4 cup)
  • Fine salt (a pinch)
  • Cocoa powder (for dusting ramekins)
  • Optional garnishes: powdered sugar, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel

Instructions

  • Prep the ramekins: Lightly butter four 6-ounce ramekins. Dust with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess. This helps the cakes release cleanly.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket gives you that quick set on the edges.
  • Melt the chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 ounces chocolate with 1/2 cup butter in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. You can also use a double boiler if you prefer.
  • Whisk in sugar: Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar to the warm chocolate mixture and whisk until glossy and combined.
  • Beat in eggs and yolks: Add 2 eggs and 2 yolks, whisking until the mixture is thick and satiny. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla and a pinch of salt.
  • Fold in flour: Sprinkle 1/4 cup flour over the batter and gently fold until no dry spots remain. Don’t overmix.
  • Fill the ramekins: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full.
  • Air fry: Place ramekins in the basket, leaving space for air flow. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes. You’re looking for set edges with a slightly soft center that jiggles a bit.
  • Rest briefly: Let the cakes sit for 1 minute to finish setting at the edges.
  • Unmold and serve: Run a thin knife around the edges. Invert onto plates, lift off the ramekins, and dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately with ice cream or berries.