Here is a simple recipe to make delicious chocolate molten lava cakes that are dusted with candy cane pieces, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season! These mini cakes taste luxurious, look cute and will definitely catch the attention of friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of milk or dark chocolate (Tip: the better quality the chocolate, the more delicious the cakes will taste)
- ½ cup of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 1 tsp. of instant espresso
- 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract
- Muffin cup liners
1. Preheat the oven to 400 F.
2. Melt the chocolate and butter in a microwaveable bowl, in the microwave. Be sure to stir the chocolate every 5-10 seconds, making sure not to burn it. If the chocolate tastes bitter, it is burnt and should be discarded. Let the chocolate cool on the counter. Add the cocoa powder and espresso to the chocolate mixture.
3. Beat the eggs, vanilla and sugar until thick in a separate bowl.
4. Mix the chocolate into the egg mixture. Be sure to mix quickly and well. If the chocolate is hot, it will scramble the eggs!
5. Add the flour.
6. Distribute the muffin liners in your muffin pan and pour the batter into each cup making sure to only fill it 3/4 way to the brim.
7. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, making sure that the centre remains soft.
8. Crush some candy canes using a food processor or blender and sprinkle a little on top of each cake.
The great thing about this recipe is that you can dress the cake with whatever flavour you enjoy paired with chocolate. If you like the combination of orange with chocolate, try zesting a little orange peel over each cake before you serve it. If you enjoy coffee and chocolate, add a little extra espresso when making the batter. Also, instead of adding candy cane pieces on top, you could possibly add fresh raspberries and a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream. Yum!
Photo Credits
http://cdn.iowagirleats.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/MoltenChocolateLavaCake_10_mini.jpg
http://img.foodnetwork.com/FOOD/2006/07/21/pa0806_lava_cakes.jpg