Name: Chocolate Lava Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 12 chocolate chunks or truffles (for molten center)

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These chocolate lava cookies are rich, fudgy, and filled with a gooey molten center that melts in my mouth with every bite. They combine the comfort of a cookie with the decadence of a lava cake, making them a dessert I love baking for special occasions or when I want to impress guests with something indulgent yet approachable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together two of my favorite desserts in one treat. The outside of the cookie is slightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and oozing with melted chocolate. I like that it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks fancy but is actually simple to make. I also enjoy how versatile these cookies are, because I can switch up the filling or toppings depending on my mood. Chocolate Lava Cookies

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Chocolate chunks or truffles for the molten center

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate together until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
I whisk the sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined, then stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
I sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, folding gently until a dough forms.
I scoop out portions of dough, flatten them slightly, and place a chocolate chunk or truffle in the center. I then wrap the dough around the filling to seal it.
I place the cookies on the baking sheet and bake for about 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
I let them cool for a few minutes before enjoying them warm so the molten center stays gooey.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 cookies. It usually takes me 20 minutes to prepare the dough and about 10–12 minutes to bake, so I can have them ready in under 35 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

I sometimes swap the semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate when I want a more intense flavor. I’ve also used peanut butter cups, caramel candies, or white chocolate truffles in the center for a fun twist. Sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on top before baking adds a nice balance to the sweetness.

storage/reheating

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want them to last longer, I keep them in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, I pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, which brings the molten center back to life. Chocolate Lava Cookies

FAQs

How do I keep the center gooey?

I make sure not to overbake the cookies. Taking them out when the edges are set but the middle is still soft ensures the center stays molten.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, I freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls with the filling inside. When I’m ready, I bake them straight from frozen, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make them gluten-free?

I can swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and they turn out just as delicious.

What type of chocolate works best for the center?

I like using high-quality chocolate chunks or truffles. Anything that melts smoothly works well for the gooey filling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double the ingredients easily and bake in batches. The cookies keep their texture and flavor perfectly even in larger quantities.

Conclusion

I love baking these chocolate lava cookies because they feel like a little luxury I can enjoy anytime. The combination of crisp edges and molten centers makes them irresistible, and they’re surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether I’m making them for a gathering or just treating myself, these cookies never fail to impress.