Red Velvet Lava Cake

Name: Red Velvet Lava Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring; 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 1/4 cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Treat yourself to a luxurious dessert experience with this Red Velvet Lava Cake recipe. As you cut into this moist, velvety cake, a rich, gooey chocolate center flows out, creating a stunning contrast that’s as delectable as it is visually appealing. Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or whenever you crave something indulgent, this dessert will leave everyone wanting more.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:33:33.865Z

This Red Velvet Lava Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake and molten chocolate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Red Velvet Lava Cake is a versatile dessert that suits a variety of occasions. Whether it's a romantic date night, a festive birthday celebration, or even just a casual weeknight treat, this dessert can elevate any meal. The striking red color and silky texture combined with the molten chocolate center create a visual feast that's sure to impress guests. You can also customize the serving size, making it easy to cater to both small and large gatherings.

What sets this lava cake apart from traditional desserts is its unique balance of flavors. The slight tang of the red velvet contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate center, creating a harmonic experience that delights the senses. Serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the experience even further. It's not just a treat; it’s an experience!

A Deliciously Fun Baking Project

For those who love baking, making Red Velvet Lava Cake is a fun and straightforward project. The recipe combines classic baking techniques like creaming butter and sugar with the excitement of pouring molten chocolate into the center. It’s a wonderful way to introduce novice bakers to the art of creating decadent desserts. Plus, the steps are easy to follow, making this dessert rookie-proof yet perfect for seasoned bakers looking to impress.

Additionally, you can explore various flavor adaptations while keeping the red velvet base. Consider infusing the batter with spices like cinnamon or even a splash of coffee to deepen the flavors. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make the recipe your own and explore different ingredient combinations. Unleash your creativity in the kitchen and have fun crafting your version of this beloved dessert.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start preparing the cake.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Lava Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup heavy cream

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Red Velvet Lava Cake.

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour four ramekins. In a bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in sugar until well combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Combine the Ingredients

Add eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture, then stir in the dry ingredients until smooth.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and pour over the chopped chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Lava Cakes

Fill each ramekin halfway with the red velvet batter, spoon in some chocolate filling, and top with more batter.

Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is soft.

Serve

Let cool for a minute, then invert onto a plate. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Lava Cake!

Tips for the Perfect Lava Cake

Perfecting the lava cake involves a few essential tips. Firstly, be cautious with the baking time; pulling them out just when the edges are firm but the center is still soft is key to achieving that glorious molten effect. It might take a few tries to nail your ideal timing based on your oven’s quirks.

Additionally, using high-quality chocolate can elevate your lava cake significantly. Opt for bittersweet chocolate with a high cocoa content for a richer flavor. Always ensure that the chocolate and cream mixture is smooth before you incorporate it into the batter; lumps can interfere with that heavenly lava effect.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Red Velvet Lava Cake, presentation is everything! Place the inverted cake on a plate and dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Accompany it with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce to complement the chocolate and add a refreshing burst of flavor.

For a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, consider pairing the lava cake with a scoop of homemade ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess perfectly balances the warm, gooey center, creating a heavenly bite. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness of your dessert pairing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it in the ramekins, then bake just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for red food coloring?

You can use beet juice as a natural alternative for red food coloring.