Name: Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7 Lindt chocolates (see note 2); 5 ounces chopped semi-sweet chocolate (good quality, see note 3); 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided); 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 2 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup light brown sugar (gently packed, soft sugar); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing); Vanilla bean ice cream; Magic shell chocolate sauce

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 71 reviews

If you have a serious sweet tooth and crave an indulgent dessert, you absolutely have to try this Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe. Imagine biting into a warm, tender cake that bursts open to reveal molten, velvety chocolate pooled around a rich Lindt chocolate center, perfectly balanced by the cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream. Every spoonful is pure magic, with the bittersweet chocolate harmonizing beautifully with the brown sugar sweetness and a touch of vanilla. This dessert feels like a special occasion wrapped up in a cozy, comforting bite, and it’s easier to make than you’d expect!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four close-up steps of mixing ingredients in a white bowl on a white marbled texture. In the first step, the bowl contains several chunks of pale yellow butter stacked on top of dark brown chopped chocolate pieces. In the second step, the ingredients have melted into a smooth, thick, and shiny dark brown liquid, with a red spatula partially coated in it. The third step shows two raw eggs with bright orange yolks next to a mound of light brown sugar inside the bowl. The fourth step reveals the mixture from step three blended into a smooth, light brown liquid with small bubbles, with a black whisk resting in the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The best part about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect texture and flavor explosion. From the luscious Lindt chocolates at the heart of the cake to the silky vanilla bean ice cream on top, these simple staples come together to make something truly unforgettable.

7 Lindt chocolates: These create the molten center and deliver that signature smooth texture and premium chocolate flavor.
5 ounces chopped semi-sweet chocolate: A high-quality chocolate ensures a rich, deep chocolate base for the cake itself.
8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Butter adds the moistness and helps create that tender crumb.
2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the batter.
2 large egg yolks: Extra yolks add creaminess and allow the cake to remain luxuriously dense yet soft.
1/2 cup light brown sugar (gently packed, soft sugar): Brown sugar brings a subtle caramel flavor and moisture to the cake.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a fragrant warmth that balances the chocolate beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Just enough flour to give the cake structure without drying it out.
Vanilla bean ice cream: Creamy cold ice cream contrasts perfectly with the hot lava cake.
Magic shell: For that delightful hard chocolate topping that cracks in your mouth.

How to Make Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

Step 1: Chop the Chocolate

Start by chopping your semi-sweet chocolate into pieces roughly the size of chocolate chips. This helps the chocolate melt evenly without burning and ensures a smooth base for the cake batter.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut your butter into tablespoons and reserve one for greasing. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining butter with the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Microwave in 45-second bursts, stirring gently after each until completely melted and smooth. Let this mixture cool slightly so it won’t cook the eggs when combined.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg yolks at room temperature with the light brown sugar. Whisk vigorously until the mixture smooths out and thickens a little—this step incorporates air, giving your lava cakes a delicate texture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add salt and vanilla extract to your egg mixture, followed by the cooled chocolate and butter blend. Whisk until everything is perfectly combined and smooth. Finally, gently fold in the flour just until incorporated. Over-mixing will make the cake less tender, so 30 seconds should do.

Step 5: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Grease your muffin tin thoroughly with the reserved tablespoon of butter. I love sliding my hand, covered with a plastic sandwich bag, around each cavity for an even coat. Next, dust the inside cavities with cocoa powder, tapping out the excess. This little trick prevents sticking and adds a rich chocolatey aroma to your cakes.

Step 6: Fill and Insert Lindt Chocolates

Spoon about one-third of the batter evenly into each muffin cavity. Nestle one Lindt chocolate ball in the center of each cavity, then cover with the remaining batter until the molds are nearly full. Smooth the tops gently with the back of a spoon or your finger. This layering creates the molten center once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your lava cakes for 16 to 17 minutes until the tops spring back lightly when pressed. The edges will be set and cake-like, but the centers remain delectably gooey, ready to ooze out with your first fork scoop.

Step 8: Flip and Serve

After baking, let the muffin tin sit for 2 minutes to allow the cakes to settle. Place a tray larger than your tin right on top, flip it over carefully, and let it stand for 30 seconds. Gently lift the muffin tin off, and your lava cakes should release beautifully. Serve immediately with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of magic shell for contrast that will blow your mind.

How to Serve Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

A white plate holds a chocolate lava cake with a rough textured dark brown outer layer. The center is oozing smooth, shiny milk chocolate that flows out in thick ribbons. On top, there is a soft white cream dollop, slightly melting into the warm cake. Around the cream, thin dark chocolate shavings add a delicate texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand is holding a spoon lifting a piece of cake, showing the rich chocolate inside clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The beauty of this dessert shines best when paired with a few thoughtful garnishes. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a sprig of fresh mint adds elegance. For an extra pop of flavor and texture, sprinkle some toasted chopped nuts or fresh berries around the plate. These little touches amplify the indulgence and make each serving feel like a celebration.

Side Dishes

While this dessert speaks for itself, pairing it with candied orange peel or a bright berry coulis beautifully cuts through the richness. If you want to keep things simple, a side of freshly brewed coffee, espresso, or even a smooth port wine complements the chocolate notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or a special occasion, serve each lava cake on a small decorative plate with a splotch of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce artistically drizzled on the side. You can even pipe whipped cream rosettes around the ice cream scoop for an elegant touch. A light sprinkle of edible gold dust can elevate the visual appeal, making your Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe the star dessert everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover lava cakes—though that might be rare!—store them covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. This helps maintain their tender texture, but they’re best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked lava cakes in the muffin tin. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is a lifesaver when you want to prepare in advance for a special occasion.

Reheating

Reheat leftover cakes gently in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this can dry out the cake or melt the lava center prematurely. Once warm, serve immediately with fresh ice cream for that classic temperature contrast we love so much.

FAQs

Can I use a different brand of chocolate instead of Lindt?

Absolutely! While Lindt chocolates create a signature silky molten center, you can substitute with any high-quality chocolate truffle or chocolate ball that melts well. The key is smooth, good-quality chocolate that melts into a decadent core.

What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

You can use ramekins or small oven-safe bowls instead. Just be sure to grease them thoroughly and adjust baking times slightly depending on the size of your containers.

How do I know when the lava cake is perfectly baked?

The top should be set and spring back lightly when pressed, but the center will still feel soft and slightly jiggly. Overbaking can cause the lava center to firm up, so keep a close eye as it nears the end of the timer.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Adapting this exact recipe to be vegan or dairy-free is tricky because of the eggs, butter, and ice cream, but you could experiment with plant-based butter, egg replacements, and dairy-free ice cream alternatives. However, the texture and flavor may differ from the traditional Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe.

Why use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone that complements chocolate beautifully, making the cake more tender and flavorful than white sugar would alone.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way Chili’s Lava Cake with Lindt Chocolates and Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe melts in your mouth and lights up your dessert experience. It’s not just a cake; it’s a moment of pure joy shared with friends and family. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite anytime you crave a decadent treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. So go ahead, treat yourself, and savor every warm, gooey bite!