Molten Chocolate Center Cookies

Molten Chocolate Center Cookies are soft, rich cookies with a gooey, melted chocolate middle that oozes with each bite. They offer the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers, combining the best elements of cookies and lava cakes in one irresistible treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are a chocolate fantasy come true—crisp on the edges, chewy inside, and filled with molten chocolate that stays soft and decadent. Perfect for serving warm with coffee or as a simple but impressive dessert for guests.

ingredients

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

• all-purpose flour
• baking soda
• salt
• unsalted butter
• brown sugar
• granulated sugar
• eggs
• vanilla extract
• semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks
• baking chocolate squares (for filling)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter with brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chunks.
6. Scoop dough and flatten slightly. Place a square of chocolate in the center, then form the dough around it to seal.
7. Arrange on the baking sheet with space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set but centers are still soft.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 cookies
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 12 minutes
• Total time: About 30 minutes

Variations

• Sea salt topping: Sprinkle with flaky salt before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Peanut butter core: Replace chocolate center with a spoonful of peanut butter.
• Mint chocolate: Use mint-flavored chocolate for a refreshing twist.
• Espresso flavor: Add instant coffee powder to the dough for a mocha version.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive the molten center. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months and bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but milk chocolate will create a sweeter and creamier filling.

How do I prevent overbaking?

Take cookies out when the edges are set but centers look slightly underdone—they’ll finish setting as they cool.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, portion and freeze dough balls with filling inside. Bake from frozen or thaw before baking.

How do I keep the center molten?

Use high-quality chocolate that melts well and serve while warm.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if it’s too soft.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, but they are best enjoyed warm shortly after baking.

What kind of chocolate works best for the center?

Use a thick square or disk of baking chocolate that retains structure when melted.

How do I reheat them properly?

Microwave for a few seconds or rewarm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–6 minutes.

Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids love the molten surprise inside.

Conclusion

Molten Chocolate Center Cookies are a dreamy dessert that’s simple to make yet luxurious to eat. With their warm, gooey middle and rich cookie dough, these treats are guaranteed to become a favorite for chocolate lovers of all ages.

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