Chocolate Lava Cookies

Chocolate Lava Cookies are an indulgent treat featuring a rich, fudgy chocolate cookie shell with a molten, creamy center. These cookies offer the best of both worlds—crispy on the outside and decadently gooey on the inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are ideal for chocolate lovers who crave a luxurious dessert with a surprising twist. The contrast between the dark, crackly exterior and the warm, lava-like filling makes each bite unforgettable. Perfect for special occasions or satisfying intense chocolate cravings.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Butter (softened)
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Chocolate chips (for the coating)
• White chocolate or cream cheese filling (for the center)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop dough into balls, flatten slightly, and place a spoonful of the white chocolate or cream cheese filling in the center.
7. Carefully fold the dough over the filling and seal to form a ball.
8. Roll the dough ball in chocolate chips to coat the outside.
9. Place on baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the lava effect.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes

Variations

• Nutella Center: Replace the white chocolate filling with Nutella for a hazelnut twist.
• Peppermint Lava: Add peppermint extract and a white chocolate-mint center for a holiday version.
• Peanut Butter Core: Use peanut butter filling for a sweet and salty contrast.
• Dark Chocolate Upgrade: Substitute regular cocoa with dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive the molten center.
• Freezing: Freeze dough balls before baking for make-ahead convenience.

FAQs

How do I keep the filling from leaking out?

Seal the dough completely around the filling to prevent leakage during baking.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Yes, but for best results, use homemade dough that’s designed to accommodate the filling.

What type of filling works best?

White chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or Nutella are excellent choices.

How can I make the cookies gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.

What makes the lava effect?

The molten center remains gooey because it bakes slower than the cookie shell.

Can I use dark chocolate for the coating?

Absolutely, dark chocolate chips enhance the richness.

Why are my cookies dry?

Overbaking or using too little butter can lead to dry cookies—watch the time carefully.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is optional but can help prevent spreading.

How long do they stay gooey?

They are best enjoyed warm but will stay soft for 1–2 days if stored properly.

Conclusion

Chocolate Lava Cookies are a spectacular dessert that merges the elegance of lava cake with the comfort of cookies. With a delicate crust and a warm, flowing center, they’re a surefire way to impress guests or elevate your personal treat game. Make a batch and savor every gooey, chocolate-rich bite.

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