Lemon Lava Cakes
Luscious, tangy and sweet, the perfect zesty twist to your traditional chocolate lava cake!
Ingredients:
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
4 whole eggs
2 additional egg yolks
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to a hot 425°F (218°C). Generously butter and sugar-coat six ramekins, tapping out any excess sugar. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a delightful sugary crust to the cakes.
Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Keep an eye on it to ensure it melts without browning, which could alter the flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Add the granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the melted butter. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring no lumps remain. The zest is key here, as it infuses the batter with a deep lemon flavor.
Mix Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will add richness and structure to your lava cakes.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the egg mixture to the saucepan containing the butter mixture. Stir continuously while pouring to blend the ingredients smoothly and to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins. Place them on a baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. The edges should be firm, but the center should still be slightly soft to the touch, allowing for that classic lava-like flow when cut open.
Serve with Style: Allow the cakes to cool for a few minutes before carefully unmolding them. This rest period helps the cakes set enough to hold their shape but not too long that the lava solidifies. Dust each cake with powdered sugar and garnish with a fresh slice of lemon to enhance the lemony flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 290 calories. This treat is best enjoyed in moderation, giving you a burst of flavor without a lot of guilt.
