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Easy Molten Nutella Lava Cakes Without Ramekins

molten nutella lava cakes - featured image

These easy molten Nutella lava cakes are rich, gooey, and baked in a muffin tin lined with parchment paper—no ramekins needed. Perfect for beginners, they deliver a tender crust with a molten chocolate center in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/3 cup (110g) Nutella
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon espresso powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line each muffin cup with parchment paper squares, pressing them gently into place.
  2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove, then set aside to cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and slightly fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Slowly pour in the melted butter while whisking continuously to combine evenly.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and optional espresso powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stop when just combined.
  6. Place a heaping tablespoon of batter into each parchment-lined muffin cup, filling about halfway.
  7. Add about 1 teaspoon of Nutella in the center of each cup, then cover with another tablespoon of batter.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, checking closely at the 10-minute mark. The edges should be set and firm but the center slightly soft and jiggly.
  9. Remove from oven and let the cakes rest for 2 minutes before carefully lifting them out using the parchment paper edges.
  10. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs to avoid batter seizing. Line muffin tin cups with parchment paper squares to prevent sticking and ease removal. Watch baking time closely to maintain a molten center; ovens vary. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. For dairy-free, use coconut oil and a dairy-free hazelnut spread. Optional espresso powder adds a subtle mocha note.

Nutrition

Keywords: molten lava cake, Nutella lava cake, easy dessert, no ramekins, beginner baking, chocolate dessert, quick dessert, molten chocolate cake