Red Velvet Lava Cake

Name: Red Velvet Lava Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate decadence with this Red Velvet Lava Cake recipe. Moist, velvety red cake envelops a luscious, molten center, creating a stunning dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner at home. This show-stopping treat is easy to make and sure to impress!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:53:46.873Z

This Red Velvet Lava Cake is perfect for making a lasting impression during a romantic dinner or special celebration.

The Allure of Red Velvet

Red velvet cake is known not just for its vibrant color, but also for its unique flavor profile. The subtle hint of cocoa combined with the tanginess of buttermilk creates a rich, complex taste that captivates dessert lovers. This red velvet lava cake elevates that classic flavor with the added excitement of a gooey molten center, making it a delightful surprise with every bite.

Traditionally associated with special occasions, red velvet cake has made its way into modern dessert menus, appealing to both those with a sweet tooth and those who appreciate beautiful presentations. The eye-catching color makes it a fantastic centerpiece for gatherings, combining visual appeal and taste into one delicious package.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a night in, this Red Velvet Lava Cake fits the bill perfectly. It impresses with its elegant look while being simple enough to whip up at home. It’s a great way to show you care, and the molten center is always a hit with guests.

Pair it with ice cream or whipped cream for an added layer of indulgence. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the cold cream will delight your senses and elevate your dessert experience. You’ll find that this lava cake becomes a go-to recipe for those moments when you want to impress.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect molten center, timing is crucial. Baking for just the right amount of time allows the edges to set while keeping the middle soft and runny. Monitor your cakes closely during the last few minutes of baking, and feel free to do a toothpick check—though you want to be careful not to overbake!

Using quality ingredients makes a significant difference in the final taste. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and fresh buttermilk to enhance the flavors. A rich chocolate experience begins with the best components, leading to richer, more decadent results.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before you start baking.

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Molten Center

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup butter

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect lava cake.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease four ramekins and dust with cocoa powder.

Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, buttermilk, food coloring, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients until just combined.

Prepare the Molten Chocolate

Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth.

Assemble

Pour a small amount of cake batter into the bottom of each ramekin. Add a spoonful of the melted chocolate mixture in the center, then top with more cake batter until the ramekins are about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still soft.

Serve

Let cool for 1 minute, then run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates. Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

Enjoy your delicious lava cake while it's warm for the best experience!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Red Velvet Lava Cake, presentation is everything. Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or drizzle a bit of raspberry sauce on the plate to add both color and a refreshing tartness. Pairing the cake with fresh berries can further enhance the visual appeal while balancing the dessert's sweetness with a natural tart flavor.

Consider serving the cake in clear glass dishes so that the vibrant red and molten center are visible. This not only looks stunning but also adds an element of anticipation as guests can see the goodness awaiting them inside.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooled lava cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds to restore that gooey center. Just be careful not to overheat, as you want to keep the center molten.

For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Wrap each uncooked ramekin tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to bake, simply increase the baking time slightly, and you’ll have fresh lava cakes whenever a craving strikes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and fill the ramekins ahead of time. Just bake them right before serving.

→ What should I serve with the lava cake?

It's delicious on its own or served with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.