Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!)

Indulging in dessert is one of life’s greatest pleasures, especially when it involves a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake. This gluten-free version, enhanced with a sweet strawberry surprise, is a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. The rich, dairy-free dark chocolate combined with the luscious strawberry fruit spread creates a dessert that is not only satisfying but also easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a decadent dessert that will impress your friends and family. Let’s dive in!

Why This Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!) Stands Out

This Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!) stands out for several reasons. First, it’s a celebration of flavors—rich chocolate meets the sweetness of strawberries in a way that complements each other beautifully. Second, the recipe is straightforward, making it a perfect choice for beginner bakers or those short on time. Lastly, this cake is gluten-free and dairy-free, so everyone can indulge without worry.

Imagine breaking into the soft, warm cake and watching the chocolate ooze out, mingling with the strawberry spread. It’s pure bliss in every bite!

Ingredient Notes

• 3 oz dairy-free dark chocolate: Choose a high-quality brand for the richest flavor. Look for options labeled dairy-free to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil: This oil adds moisture and a hint of coconut flavor. Make sure to use additional coconut oil for greasing the ramekins.
• 1 large egg & 1 egg yolk: These provide the necessary structure and richness to the cake.
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that adds a hint of caramel flavor.
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce: This acts as a binder and keeps the cake moist without using dairy.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must-have for enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.
• Pinch of sea salt: This balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: For a deeper chocolate taste, use unsweetened cocoa powder. Don’t forget to reserve some for dusting the ramekins!
• 4 teaspoons organic strawberry fruit spread: The star of the show! This will create the ooey-gooey center that everyone loves.

Recommended Tools

• Ramekins: Individual-sized dishes perfect for baking the lava cakes.
• Mixing bowl: For combining all of your ingredients effortlessly.
• Whisk: A simple tool to mix your wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success!
• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling hot ramekins straight from the oven.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!) — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Ramekins

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

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Coconut Oil

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free dark chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, coconut sugar, unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients. Gently fold until combined. Then, sift in the cocoa powder and mix until smooth.

Step 5: Add Strawberry Filling

Spoon a small amount of batter into each ramekin, just enough to cover the bottom. Add 1 teaspoon of the organic strawberry fruit spread in the center of each ramekin, then cover with more batter, filling each ramekin about three-quarters full.

Step 6: Bake

Place the ramekins on a baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges look set but the center remains soft.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Carefully invert each ramekin onto a plate, allowing the chocolate lava cake to release. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flow of chocolate and strawberry!

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Refined Sugar-Free: Substitute coconut sugar with a sugar alternative like monk fruit or erythritol.
• Nut-Free: Ensure that the chocolate you choose is nut-free, as some brands may be processed in facilities that handle nuts.
• Vegan Option: Replace the egg and egg yolk with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly version.
• Low-Carb: Use a low-carb sweetener to keep it keto-friendly.

Mistakes That Ruin Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!)

• Overbaking: This is the most common mistake! Keep an eye on the timer and remove the cakes as soon as the edges are set.
• Not greasing ramekins properly: A well-greased ramekin is essential to ensure your lava cake can be easily removed.
• Skipping the cocoa powder dusting: This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps prevent sticking.
• Using low-quality chocolate: The flavor of the cake largely depends on the chocolate, so opt for something rich and high-quality.

How to Store & Reheat

To store any leftover Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!), place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. If you want to enjoy them warm and gooey again, you can also place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Ask the Chef

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking.

What if I don’t have ramekins?

If you don’t have ramekins, you can use a muffin tin or any oven-safe dish, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Just be sure to grease and dust them well!

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of fruit spread?

While fresh strawberries can be a tasty addition, they won’t create the gooey center you desire. If you prefer fresh fruit, consider serving them on the side.

How can I make this cake more chocolatey?

For an extra chocolate kick, add chocolate chips to the batter or serve with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top!

Because You Liked This

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• Gooey Chocolate Chip Brownie Bars
• Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake

Final Bite

As you take your first bite of this warm, luscious Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cake (With Strawberry!), you’ll feel a wave of satisfaction wash over you. The harmonious blend of chocolate and strawberry creates a dessert experience that is simply unforgettable. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every decadent bite, and don’t forget to share—if you can resist the temptation!