Name: Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 7
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: For Cake:; 1 white chocolate baking bar; ½ cup unsalted butter; ⅔ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup powdered sugar; ¼ tsp salt; 4 eggs; 4 egg yolks; ¾ cup lemon curd; 1½ tbsp fresh lemon zest; ½ tsp vanilla extract; For Cream Topping:; ½ cup heavy cream; 1½ tbsp powdered sugar

Indulge in the delightful combination of tangy lemon and rich white chocolate with this mouthwatering lemon molten lava cake recipe. Perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat, these cakes deliver a burst of citrusy goodness with a creamy, molten center.

Photos of Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry, you might need to pick up a white chocolate baking bar and lemon curd from the supermarket. These items are essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your lemon molten lava cakes.

Ingredients For Lemon Molten Lava Cake

white chocolate baking bar: Provides a creamy, rich base for the cake batter.

unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.

all-purpose flour: The main structure-building ingredient.

powdered sugar: Sweetens the batter while maintaining a smooth texture.

salt: Enhances the other flavors in the cake.

eggs: Provide structure and richness.

egg yolks: Add extra richness and help create the molten center.

lemon curd: Contributes a burst of citrus flavor and creaminess.

fresh lemon zest: Adds vibrant lemon flavor and fragrance.

vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

heavy cream: Used for making the whipped cream topping.

powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping.

One reader, Christabel Williamson says:

This lemon molten lava cake is a delightful treat! The tangy lemon curd perfectly complements the rich white chocolate, creating a heavenly dessert. The cream topping adds a lovely touch. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious!

Christabel Williamson

Techniques Required for Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe

How to melt chocolate and butter in the microwave: Place white chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals at 50 percent power, stirring well between intervals until melted and smooth.

How to whip cream to soft peaks: Using an electric hand mixer set on high speed, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. This means the cream will hold its shape but the peaks will curl over when the beaters are lifted.

How to whip cream to stiff peaks: Continue whipping the cream after adding powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This means the cream will hold its shape firmly and the peaks will stand straight up when the beaters are lifted.

How to use a piping bag: Transfer the whipped cream mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Squeeze the bag gently to pipe the whipped cream over the cakes in a decorative manner.

How to invert cakes: Run a knife around the edge of the custard cups to ensure the cakes are loosened. Place a dessert plate over the top of each cup and carefully invert to release the cake onto the plate.

How To Make Lemon Molten Lava Cake

A dessert deserving to be a staple in your home! This amazing molten lava cake is infused with a decadent lemon curd that cuts nicely through the rich cake.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cake:

1white chocolate baking barbroken into pieces
½cupunsalted butterdiced into 1 tbsp pieces
⅔cupall-purpose flour
½cuppowdered sugar
¼tspsalt
4eggslarge
4egg yolkslarge
¾cuplemon curdbottled
1½tbspfresh lemon zest
½tspvanilla extract

For Cream Topping:

½cupheavy cream
1½tbsppowdered sugar

Instructions

Cake:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place 7 (6 ounce) custard cups on an 18×13-inch rimmed baking sheet.
Place white chocolate and butter in a medium-microwave safe mixing bowl. Heat in microwave in 30 second intervals on 50 percent power, stirring well between intervals until melted and smooth (the last interval you may only need 15 seconds).
Stir in flour, powdered sugar and salt then add in eggs, egg yolks, lemon curd, lemon zest and vanilla and whisk well to combined.
Spray custard cups well with non-stick baking spray then pour mixture into cups filling each about ⅔ full (½ cup in each).
Bake in preheated oven until edges are golden brown and centers are puffy and just beginning to set, about 14 to 17 minutes.
Let cool on a wire rack 10 minutes.
Run a knife around edge to ensure they are loosened then invert cakes onto individual dessert plates.

Cream Topping:

In a medium mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer set on high speed whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Stir in powdered sugar then whip until stiff peaks form. Transfer mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Pipe whipped cream over cakes, top with berries and garnish with mint.

Recipe Notes

Optional Garnish: Fresh berries and mint leaves. Alternative Serving Suggestion: You can let them cool just a few minutes and serve really warm dusted with powdered sugar and omitting the whipped cream).

Nutrition

Calories: 646.43kcal
Fat: 43.67g
Saturated Fat: 25.67g
Trans Fat: 0.69g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.29g
Carbohydrates: 56.22g
Fiber: 0.73g
Sugar: 45.74g
Protein: 9.58g
Cholesterol: 269.70mg
Sodium: 181.24mg
Calcium: 144.45mg
Potassium: 233.76mg
Iron: 1.46mg
Vitamin A: 292.12µg
Vitamin C: 6.97mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe

To ensure your lemon molten lava cakes have a perfectly gooey center, be precise with your baking time. The edges should be golden brown and the centers just beginning to set. Overbaking will result in a fully cooked center, losing that signature molten texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Lemon Molten Lava Cake

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients like flour, powdered sugar, and lemon curd before starting to streamline the process.

Use a microwave: Melt the white chocolate and butter in the microwave instead of a double boiler to save time.

Prepare custard cups: Spray the custard cups with non-stick spray and place them on the baking sheet before mixing the batter.

Whip cream ahead: Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar for the topping while the cakes are baking.

Cool efficiently: Let the cakes cool on a wire rack for exactly 10 minutes to ensure they set properly without overcooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe

white chocolate baking bar - Substitute with milk chocolate baking bar: Milk chocolate can provide a similar creamy texture, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in place of butter to provide a similar fat content and texture.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Cake flour will give a lighter, more tender crumb which can be desirable in a molten lava cake.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture and sweetness level.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar flavor with a slightly different mineral content.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) can be used for a vegan alternative.
egg yolks - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can provide a similar creamy texture for a vegan option.
lemon curd - Substitute with lime curd: Lime curd can offer a similar tartness and creamy texture with a different citrus flavor.
fresh lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest can provide a similar citrusy aroma and flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can offer a different but complementary flavor profile.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a similar richness and creaminess for a dairy-free option.
powdered sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will change the consistency and flavor slightly.

Presenting Your Lemon Molten Lava Cake

Use elegant plating: Place the lemon molten lava cake slightly off-center on a pristine white plate to create a sophisticated look.
Add a vibrant color contrast: Pipe a generous swirl of whipped cream on top of the cake using a large star tip, ensuring the peaks are well-defined and elegant.
Garnish with fresh berries: Scatter a few fresh berries around the plate, such as raspberries and blueberries, to add a burst of color and freshness.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a couple of small, delicate edible flowers on the plate for a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
Add a mint sprig: Garnish the top of the whipped cream with a small sprig of fresh mint to enhance the presentation and add a hint of green.
Drizzle with lemon sauce: Lightly drizzle a thin stream of lemon sauce around the cake to complement the lemon curd inside and add a glossy finish.
Dust with powdered sugar: Just before serving, lightly dust the entire plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar to give it a refined, professional touch.
Serve with a side of lemon zest: Place a small mound of finely grated lemon zest on the side of the plate to enhance the citrus aroma and flavor.
Use a stylish dessert fork: Accompany the dish with a sleek, polished dessert fork placed neatly on the side of the plate for a complete, elegant presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Lemon Molten Lava Cake

Custard cups: Small dishes used to bake individual portions of the cake.
18x13-inch rimmed baking sheet: A large baking tray with a rim to hold the custard cups in place while baking.
Medium microwave-safe mixing bowl: A bowl that can be safely used in the microwave to melt the white chocolate and butter.
Microwave: An appliance used to heat and melt the white chocolate and butter.
Whisk: A tool used to mix ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
Non-stick baking spray: A spray used to coat the custard cups to prevent the cakes from sticking.
Wire rack: A cooling rack to allow the cakes to cool evenly after baking.
Knife: A tool to run around the edges of the cakes to loosen them from the custard cups.
Individual dessert plates: Plates used to serve the cakes once they are inverted from the custard cups.
Electric hand mixer: A handheld appliance used to whip the heavy cream to form soft and stiff peaks.
Piping bag: A bag used to pipe the whipped cream onto the cakes.
Large star tip: A tip fitted to the piping bag to create decorative patterns with the whipped cream.

Interesting Fact About Lemon Molten Lava Cake

A unique aspect of this lemon molten lava cake recipe is the use of white chocolate and lemon curd together, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Is Making Lemon Molten Lava Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

This lemon molten lava cake recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of white chocolate and lemon curd adds a touch of luxury, but the other ingredients like flour, eggs, and powdered sugar are quite affordable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is Lemon Molten Lava Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This lemon molten lava cake recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The cake is high in calories, fat, and sugar, with the main ingredients being white chocolate, butter, eggs, and lemon curd. These ingredients are rich in saturated fat and added sugars, which can contribute to obesity, heart disease, and other health issues if consumed in excess.

However, there are some ways to make this recipe healthier:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and lemon curd, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use a lower fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of some of the butter to reduce saturated fat content
Incorporate more fresh fruit into the dessert, such as serving the cake with a berry compote or fresh sliced strawberries, to increase vitamin and fiber intake

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of a lemon molten lava cake while reducing some of the less healthy aspects. Remember, it's all about balance and moderation – enjoying a treat like this occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet is perfectly fine, but it's important to be mindful of the overall nutritional content of your food choices.

Editor's Opinion on This Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe

This lemon molten lava cake recipe is a delightful twist on the classic chocolate version. The combination of white chocolate and lemon curd creates a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the light, airy texture of the cake. The addition of fresh lemon zest enhances the citrus notes, making each bite refreshing. The whipped cream topping adds a creamy contrast, and the optional berries and mint garnish provide a burst of color and freshness. Overall, it's a sophisticated dessert that's sure to impress guests with its balance of flavors and elegant presentation.

Enhance Your Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Complement the zesty lemon molten lava cake with a side of grilled asparagus drizzled in a luscious lemon butter sauce. The asparagus adds a delightful crunch and a touch of earthiness that balances the sweetness of the dessert.

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Pair the lemon molten lava cake with a savory herb-crusted salmon. The rich, flaky salmon with its aromatic herb crust creates a harmonious contrast to the citrusy sweetness of the cake, making for a well-rounded meal.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: A vibrant roasted beet and goat cheese salad serves as a refreshing counterpart to the lemon molten lava cake. The earthy beets and creamy goat cheese meld beautifully with the tangy lemon curd in the dessert, creating a symphony of flavors.

Butternut Squash Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup. The velvety texture and subtle sweetness of the squash provide a comforting prelude to the bright and zesty lemon molten lava cake, making each bite of dessert even more satisfying.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: For a light and elegant side, serve prosciutto-wrapped melon. The salty prosciutto and juicy melon create a delightful interplay of flavors that perfectly complements the citrusy notes of the lemon molten lava cake, offering a refreshing contrast.

Alternative Recipes to Lemon Molten Lava Cake

Raspberry Molten Lava Cake: Dive into the luscious world of raspberries with this decadent molten lava cake. The tartness of the berries perfectly complements the rich, gooey chocolate center, making it an irresistible treat for any dessert lover.

Orange Creamsicle Cake: Experience the nostalgic flavors of a classic creamsicle in cake form. This delightful dessert combines the zesty brightness of oranges with a creamy, dreamy filling that will transport you back to your childhood.

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and juicy blueberries with these easy-to-make bars. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy flavors, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust.

Strawberry Shortcake Trifle: Layer upon layer of strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender shortcake come together in this stunning trifle. It's a show-stopping dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this silky panna cotta. The creamy coconut base is perfectly complemented by a vibrant mango topping, creating a dessert that's both refreshing and indulgent.

Appetizers and Main Courses That Complement Lemon Molten Lava Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette rubbed with garlic. Top them with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic glaze. The combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese is simply irresistible. This appetizer is perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, seasoned with spices and herbs. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is a hearty and satisfying option for any dinner table. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why trust this Lemon Molten Lava Cake Recipe:

This lemon molten lava cake recipe combines the rich creaminess of white chocolate with the zesty freshness of lemon curd and lemon zest. The balance of flavors creates a delightful dessert experience. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a perfect result every time. The addition of a homemade cream topping elevates the dish, making it a showstopper at any gathering. Trust this recipe for its meticulous detail and the harmonious blend of ingredients that promise a delicious and impressive dessert.

Want to share your experience making this Lemon Molten Lava Cake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the cakes are done baking?

You'll know the cakes are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are puffy and just beginning to set. It usually takes about 14 to 17 minutes. If you're unsure, you can gently press the center; it should be slightly firm but still have a bit of jiggle.

Can I make the lemon curd from scratch?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade lemon curd, go for it. Just make sure it's cooled before you add it to the batter. Store-bought lemon curd works perfectly fine too if you're short on time.

What can I use if I don't have custard cups?

If you don't have custard cups, you can use ramekins or even a muffin tin. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on them as they bake.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let the batter come to room temperature before filling the custard cups and baking.

How do I store leftover cakes?

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they're so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm.