Name: Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz high quality semi sweet chocolate; ½ cup unsalted butter; ¼ cup all purpose flour; ½ cup confectioners’ sugar; ⅛ tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 2 large egg yolks; 8 tsp creamy peanut butter; For Optional For Serving:; ice cream

Indulge in a delectable dessert with this peanut butter chocolate lava cakes recipe. This rich, creamy, and gooey delight delivers a perfect combination of flavors. It's a scrumptious treat that oozes molten chocolate and peanut butter, guaranteed to satiate any sweet tooth.

Photos of Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes Recipe

All ingredients listed are typically found in most pantries. The only ingredient you might need to pick up from the supermarket would be high quality semi-sweet chocolate. For the best results, opt for higher-end brands as the quality of the chocolate will significantly influence the flavor of the lava cakes.

Key Ingredients for Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Semi sweet chocolate: This is the star of the show, providing the rich, deep flavor that characterizes these cakes.

Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the cakes.

All purpose flour: It's the base that gives structure to your cakes.

Confectioners’ sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the texture of the cakes.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing out the sweetness.

Eggs: They add structure and help in binding all the ingredients together.

Peanut butter: Offers a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate and adds a delightful flavor twist.

Ice cream: An optional serving suggestion but highly recommended for an extra indulgent touch.

One reader, Griffin Decker says:

This peanut butter chocolate lava cakes recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter is simply divine. The cakes turned out perfectly gooey in the center, and the peanut butter added an extra layer of indulgence. I'll definitely be making these again!

Griffin Decker

Techniques Required for Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

How to prepare the ramekins: Spray each ramekin with nonstick cooking spray and dust with cocoa powder to ensure the cakes will seamlessly come out of the ramekins when inverted onto a plate.

How to melt the chocolate and butter: Coarsely chop the chocolate and place the butter into a medium heat-proof bowl, then add the chopped chocolate on top. Microwave on high in 10-second increments, stirring after each until completely smooth. Set aside.

How to prepare the batter: Whisk the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt together in a small bowl. Whisk the eggs and egg yolks together until combined in another small bowl. Pour the flour mixture and eggs into the bowl of chocolate and slowly stir everything together using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. If there are any lumps, gently use a whisk to rid them. The batter will be slightly thick.

How to assemble the cakes: Spoon the chocolate batter evenly into each prepared ramekin. Top with peanut butter and use a spoon to slightly press it down into the batter. Some may still be exposed.

How to bake the cakes: Place the ramekins onto a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the sides appear solid and firm. The top may still look slightly soft.

How to serve: Allow the cakes to cool for 1 minute, then cover each with an inverted plate and turn over. Use an oven mitt because the ramekins will be hot. The cakes should release easily from the ramekin. Top with ice cream and melted peanut butter and/or chocolate syrup for serving, if desired. Serve immediately.

How To Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Serve a luscious dessert with these chocolate lava cakes that come with a rich peanut butter center. Bake a batch in 30 minutes!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 12 minutes

Total: 27 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6ozhigh quality semi sweet chocolate,such as Ghirardelli or Lindt
½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick)
¼cupall purpose flour,spoon & leveled
½cupconfectioners’ sugar
⅛tspsalt
2large eggs
2large egg yolks
8tspcreamy peanut butter,about 2 tsp per cake

For Optional For Serving:

ice cream,melted peanut butter and/or chocolate syrup for drizzling

Instructions

Spray each ramekin with nonstick cooking spray and dust with cocoa powder. This ensures the cakes will seamlessly come out of the ramekins when inverted onto a plate.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Coarsely chop the chocolate. Place butter into a medium heat-proof bowl, then add chopped chocolate on top.
Microwave on high in 10-second increments, stirring after each until completely smooth. Set aside.
Whisk the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt together in a small bowl. Whisk the eggs and egg yolks together until combined in another small bowl.
Pour the flour mixture and eggs into the bowl of chocolate. Slowly stir everything together using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. If there are any lumps, gently use a whisk to rid them. The batter will be slightly thick.
Spoon the chocolate batter evenly into each prepared ramekin. Top with peanut butter and use a spoon to slightly press it down into the batter. Some may still be exposed.
Place ramekins onto a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the sides appear solid and firm. The top may still look slightly soft.
Allow to cool for 1 minute, then cover each with an inverted plate and turn over. Use an oven mitt because those ramekins are hot! The cakes should release easily from the ramekin.
Top with ice cream and melted peanut butter and/or chocolate syrup for serving, if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 621.76kcal
Fat: 46.00g
Saturated Fat: 24.84g
Trans Fat: 0.95g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.91g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.49g
Carbohydrates: 51.00g
Fiber: 3.26g
Sugar: 39.15g
Protein: 9.71g
Cholesterol: 246.23mg
Sodium: 122.33mg
Calcium: 52.02mg
Potassium: 274.45mg
Iron: 2.57mg
Vitamin A: 266.47µg

Technique Tip for Perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

When adding the peanut butter into the chocolate batter, it's best to slightly warm it up first. This will make it easier to incorporate into the batter and will prevent it from sinking to the bottom of the ramekin during baking. You can warm it up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be sure to stir it well before adding to ensure it's evenly heated. This will give your lava cakes a smooth and creamy peanut butter center.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Prep ahead: Measure out all the ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Use a double boiler: Melt the chocolate and butter together using a double boiler to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, consistent texture.

Room temperature eggs: Allow the eggs to come to room temperature before using them in the recipe to promote better incorporation into the batter.

Bake in advance: Prepare the batter and refrigerate it in the ramekins ahead of time, then bake just before serving for a freshly baked dessert.

Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes Recipe

semi sweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a slightly more intense and less sweet flavor, which can complement the richness of the peanut butter in the lava cakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor and moisture to the lava cakes, and it's a suitable replacement for butter in baking.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can add a nutty flavor and a denser texture to the lava cakes, and it's a great gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the lava cakes, and it's a liquid sweetener that can work well in this recipe.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can act as a binding agent in the lava cakes and are a suitable vegan alternative to eggs.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can provide a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor to the lava cakes, and it's a great alternative for those with peanut allergies.

Presenting Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Elevate the plating: When presenting the peanut butter chocolate lava cakes, focus on creating an elegant and refined presentation. Use clean lines and minimalistic plating to showcase the richness of the dessert.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a textural element to the plate by adding a crunchy component, such as a delicate tuile or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, to contrast the smoothness of the lava cake.
Utilize a tempered chocolate garnish: Create a sophisticated garnish by tempering chocolate and crafting delicate curls or shards to adorn the plate. This adds a touch of artistry and finesse to the overall presentation.
Highlight the peanut butter: Incorporate the peanut butter as a focal point of the plating, using a quenelle or a carefully piped design to draw attention to this key flavor element.
Balance with a fruit coulis: Introduce a vibrant fruit coulis, such as raspberry or passionfruit, to add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chocolate and peanut butter.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately placing a small, edible gold leaf on the plate to elevate the visual appeal and create a sense of opulence.
Emphasize precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the presentation reflects precision and attention to detail.
Consider the plate shape and color: Select a plate that complements the dessert, considering the color contrast and the shape to enhance the visual impact of the presentation.
Garnish with fresh berries: Introduce a burst of freshness by garnishing the plate with a few carefully placed fresh berries, adding a vibrant and natural element to the presentation.
Use edible flowers: Elevate the visual appeal by incorporating edible flowers, such as pansies or micro orchids, to bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the plating.

Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Microwave: Used to melt the chocolate and butter together to create a smooth mixture.
Ramekin: Small, individual-sized ceramic or glass dishes used for baking and serving the lava cakes.
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: Used to mix the batter and ensure a smooth consistency.
Whisk: Used to combine the flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt, and to rid the batter of any lumps.
Baking sheet: Used to provide a stable surface for the ramekins and to catch any potential spills during baking.
Oven mitt: Essential for handling the hot ramekins when removing them from the oven and inverting the cakes onto plates.

Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Allow the lava cakes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store, place the cooled cakes in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When ready to serve, reheat the cakes in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warm and gooey in the center.
To freeze, wrap each cooled cake individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped cakes in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month.
To serve frozen cakes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
Once thawed, reheat the cakes in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warm and gooey in the center.
For best results, consume the reheated peanut butter chocolate lava cakes immediately, as the texture may change slightly upon cooling.

How To Reheat Leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

To reheat leftover peanut butter chocolate lava cakes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cakes on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will prevent the cakes from drying out while reheating.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the lava cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals at 50% power until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as the cake can become rubbery if microwaved for too long.
For a quicker and more convenient method, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chocolate lava cake in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the center is warm and gooey.
If you want to recreate the freshly-baked experience, you can also reheat the lava cakes in ramekins. Place the cakes back into their original ramekins, or use oven-safe dishes of similar size. Cover the ramekins with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the centers are warm and soft.
For a decadent twist, cut the leftover peanut butter lava cake into bite-sized pieces and serve them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. The contrast between the cold, creamy base and the warm, gooey cake pieces will create a delightful dessert experience.

Random Fact about Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

The peanut butter chocolate lava cakes recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the creaminess of peanut butter. It's a perfect treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike.

Is Making Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes at Home Economical?

This peanut butter chocolate lava cakes recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of high-quality semi-sweet chocolate and butter may increase the cost, but the simple ingredients and small portions balance it out. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15. The indulgent nature of this dessert makes it a delightful treat for special occasions, earning it a solid 8 out of 10.

Are Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peanut butter chocolate lava cake recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - chocolate, butter, sugar, and peanut butter - are all high in calories, fat, and sugar. The recipe also uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber. Consuming such desserts regularly can contribute to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the butter with mashed avocado or Greek yogurt to reduce saturated fat content
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase fiber intake
Reduce the amount of sugar and opt for a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for added antioxidants and less sugar
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit to boost the nutritional value

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. However, it's essential to remember that even with healthier modifications, these lava cakes should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Thoughts on This Decadent Dessert

The combination of rich, molten chocolate and creamy peanut butter in this recipe creates a decadent and indulgent dessert experience. The contrast of textures and flavors, along with the surprise of the gooey peanut butter center, makes this a delightful treat for any chocolate and peanut butter lover. The recipe's straightforward instructions and simple ingredients make it accessible for home cooks, while the option to serve with ice cream adds a delightful touch. Overall, this peanut butter chocolate lava cake recipe is a surefire way to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Salad: Create a refreshing mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the peanut butter chocolate lava cakes.

Grilled Vegetables: Serve up a colorful platter of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, to add a healthy and vibrant touch to the indulgent dessert.

Fruit Kabobs: Skewer a variety of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, pineapple, and kiwi, for a light and fruity accompaniment to the decadent peanut butter chocolate lava cakes.

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Sizzling Steak Fajitas: Sizzling steak fajitas are a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for a fun and interactive dinner. The tender, juicy steak is paired with colorful bell peppers and onions, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad: This refreshing watermelon salad is a light and flavorful dish that's perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue. The sweet, juicy watermelon is paired with tangy feta cheese, fresh mint, and a zesty lime vinaigrette, creating a delicious and refreshing salad that's sure to impress.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip that is perfect for dipping with bread, crackers, or vegetables. The combination of spinach, artichokes, and gooey cheese creates a delicious and comforting appetizer that is sure to be a hit at any party or event.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and indulgent, this classic Italian dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta smothered in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The combination of savory chicken and creamy sauce is sure to satisfy any comfort food craving.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef cooked in a flavorful and creamy mushroom sauce, served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in and is sure to please the whole family.

Why trust this Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a decadent and indulgent dessert experience, featuring rich and velvety semi-sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The careful combination of ingredients and precise instructions ensure a perfect molten center with a luscious texture. The use of high-quality chocolate and unsalted butter elevates the flavor profile, promising a luxurious treat. The incorporation of ice cream and melted peanut butter or chocolate syrup for serving adds an extra layer of indulgence. With meticulous attention to detail, this recipe is a testament to the culinary expertise and passion for creating exquisite desserts.

Looking to discuss this delectable Peanut Butter Chocolate Lava Cakes recipe further? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum and share your thoughts, tips, and experiences with fellow baking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate. However, keep in mind that milk chocolate is sweeter than semi-sweet chocolate, so the overall sweetness of the lava cakes may be higher.

Can I prepare the batter in advance and bake it later?

It's best to bake the lava cakes immediately after preparing the batter. If the batter sits for too long, the texture and consistency of the cakes may be affected.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

While the recipe calls for creamy peanut butter, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture of the lava cakes will be slightly different with the addition of crunchy peanut pieces.

Can I omit the confectioners' sugar or use a sugar substitute?

The confectioners' sugar adds both sweetness and structure to the lava cakes, so it's best not to omit it. As for sugar substitutes, they may alter the texture and taste of the cakes, so it's recommended to use confectioners' sugar for the best results.

Can I use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour?

For this recipe, it's best to stick to all-purpose flour as it provides the right texture and structure for the lava cakes. Using alternative flours may result in a different consistency and flavor.