Rich and indulgent molten chocolate lava cakes with soft cake edges and a gooey, flowing chocolate center, ready in minutes with simple ingredients.

1/2 cup salted butter

6 ounces semisweet chocolate (about 3/4 cup chips or chopped)

3 large eggs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/8 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

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Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Grease four silicone baking cups and place them on a baking sheet.
Melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth, either in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop. Set aside to cool slightly.
Beat the eggs until pale yellow. Add the sugar and sea salt and beat until the sugar dissolves.
Pour in the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Gently beat in the flour just until combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking cups.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cakes are puffed and the centers look just barely set.
Let rest for a few minutes, then carefully turn out onto serving plates.
Serve warm with whipped cream, powdered sugar, berries, or ice cream if desired.

Do not overbake or the centers will lose their molten texture.

Grease baking cups thoroughly to ensure easy release.

Semisweet or dark chocolate both work well depending on desired richness.

The batter can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.