Pizza Hut Lava Cake Recipe

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When I first discovered Pizza Hut Lava Cake, I felt as if I had stumbled upon a hidden treasure. The blissful experience of indulging in a warm, gooey, chocolate dessert can make anyone’s day brighter.

But the joy doesn’t end with just the cake; the right pairing can elevate this experience even further.

Picture this: You’ve just devoured a savory pizza slice, and now you’re craving something sweet to wrap up the meal. A cup of rich vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the Lava Cake, contrasting its warm, molten interior with refreshing cold. Or how about a scoop of raspberry sorbet? The tartness beautifully cuts through the chocolate sweetness. You might even consider a steaming cup of espresso for an invigorating finish.

In my experience, the combinations are endless. So, let’s dive deeper into the delicious world of Pizza Hut’s Lava Cake, unravel its secrets, and elevate your dessert game.

Table of Contents

What is Pizza Hut Lava Cake?

Pizza Hut Lava Cake is a delightful dessert that surprises with its molten center. When you slice into it, warm chocolate flows out, creating an irresistible contrast to the cake itself. The cake is made with dark chocolate, providing a rich flavor complemented by the smooth texture.

Many restaurants offer desserts, but the Lava Cake stands out for its indulgent character. Whether you’re dining in or getting takeout, this cake has become an iconic finale to any meal at Pizza Hut.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of Pizza Hut Lava Cake is an absolute treat for chocolate lovers. It hits all the right notes:

Richness: The dark chocolate offers a deep flavor that feels decadent without being overly sweet.
Sweetness: A balanced sweetness, aided by the superfine sugar, enhances the chocolate without overpowering it.
Vanilla Undertone: The addition of vanilla and a slight hint of coffee elevates the chocolate, creating layers of flavor that linger on the palate.
Salty Finish: A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt, if added, can enhance the overall taste, bringing all the flavors together in perfect harmony.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Pizza Hut Lava Cake?

What truly sets Pizza Hut’s Lava Cake apart is not just its construction but the experience it brings. Other lava cakes may focus purely on the molten center, but Pizza Hut has mastered the balance. The cake has a slightly crispy outer layer, which contrasts beautifully with the smooth, flowing chocolate inside.

Furthermore, the meticulous use of quality chocolate plays a massive role in the flavor. While some recipes rely on lower-quality chocolate, Pizza Hut opts for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This choice yields a richer, more intense flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is pivotal. You’ll need:

2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 large egg yolks, at room temperature
6 oz dark chocolate (preferably 70%), chopped – 1 cup
3 oz unsalted butter – 6 tablespoons
3 oz superfine sugar – ½ cup
1 oz all-purpose flour – ¼ cup
¼ tsp sea salt
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp instant coffee granules
1 tbsp dark rum
2 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing the pan
A pinch of flaky sea salt (optional) for garnish
1 tsp powdered sugar (optional) for a finishing touch

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that lovely molten center.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ramekins

Grease four ramekins with softened butter. Make sure to coat them well to prevent sticking. Dust them lightly with flour, tapping out the excess. This step is crucial for an effortless release of the cakes after baking.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Microwave in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between until melted smooth. You can also use a double boiler if you prefer.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients

Once melted, whisk in the superfine sugar, followed by the eggs and yolks. Make sure they’re blended well. Add the vanilla extract, instant coffee granules, dark rum, sea salt, and flour. Mix until just combined, ensuring you don’t overmix.

Step 5: Fill the Ramekins

Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared ramekins, filling each about ¾ full to allow room for rising.

Step 6: Bake

Place the ramekins on a baking tray and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. You want the sides to be firm while the center remains soft. Keep an eye on them; over baking can lead to a less molten cake.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Allow the cakes to cool for about one minute. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate. It’s the moment of truth! Serve them warm and consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an upscale finish.

Tips On Making Pizza Hut Lava Cake

To ensure your Lava Cake turns out perfect, consider these tips:

Quality Matters: Use high-quality dark chocolate. This affects both flavor and texture.
Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a better texture and incorporates air more efficiently.
Timely Baking: Don’t over-bake! The center should be soft and gooey. Use a timer and check the cakes a minute or two before the expected time.
Ramekin Size: If you have larger or smaller ramekins, adjust the baking time accordingly. Larger ramekins may require more time, while smaller ones won’t need as much.
Serving Suggestions: Serve warm for maximum gooeyness. Pair with ice cream or a fresh fruit puree for variety.

Nutrition Information

pizza hut lava cake recipe nutrition facts

How Can I Store This Pizza Hut Lava Cake?

If you have leftovers (and I applaud your self-control if you do), here’s how to store them:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave for about 15 seconds until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked batter in the ramekins for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some substitutions:

Dark Chocolate: If you don’t have dark chocolate, milk chocolate can work, but expect a sweeter flavor. Adjust the sugar accordingly.
Eggs: For a vegan option, use flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Allow it to sit until it thickens.
Rum: Replace dark rum with vanilla extract or simply omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Flour: You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

Mary Lee RD

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings Servings

Calories 341 kcal

Equipment

oven
Ramekins

Ingredients

2 large eggs at room temperature
2 large egg yolks at room temperature
6 oz dark chocolate preferably 70%, chopped – 1 cup
3 oz unsalted butter – 6 tablespoons
3 oz superfine sugar – ½ cup
1 oz all-purpose flour – ¼ cup
¼ tsp sea salt
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp instant coffee granules
1 tbsp dark rum
2 tbsp unsalted butter for greasing the pan
A pinch of flaky sea salt optional for garnish
1 tsp powdered sugar optional for a finishing touch