Chocolate Lava Brownies Recipe
Introduction
These Chocolate Lava Brownies offer a decadent twist on classic brownies with a rich, molten chocolate center. Gooey and fudgy, they’re perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving and sure to impress friends and family alike.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Extra chocolate chips or chunks (for the molten center, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. If desired, fold in extra chocolate chips or chunks to create a more molten center.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft and gooey.
- Step 6: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips & Variations
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
- For an extra gooey center, add chunks of dark chocolate inside the batter before baking.
- Line the pan with parchment paper to make removing the brownies easier and cleaner.
- Experiment by adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Storage
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm individual brownies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore their gooey center.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer and slightly more bitter flavor. Adjust the sugar slightly if you prefer a sweeter brownie.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The edges should be set and slightly pulling away from the pan, while the center remains soft and slightly underbaked to keep that molten texture. Avoid overbaking to maintain gooeyness.
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Chocolate Lava Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 28-30 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies (cut into 3x3 squares) 1x
Description
Indulge in these rich and gooey Chocolate Lava Brownies, featuring a molten chocolate center for an extra decadent treat. This easy-to-make recipe combines a fudgy brownie base with optional chocolate chunks that melt into a luscious lava-like core, perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Optional
- Extra chocolate chips or chunks for the molten center
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal to prevent sticking.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth without any lumps.
- Mix the Batter: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture, stirring thoroughly to blend. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined to avoid overmixing. If desired, fold in extra chocolate chips or chunks to create an extra molten center.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The brownies should have set edges while the center remains slightly soft and underbaked to achieve the gooey lava texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes to set slightly. Cut into squares and serve warm. For an indulgent experience, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Notes
- Do not overbake to ensure the molten center remains gooey.
- Using parchment paper simplifies cleanup and makes removing brownies easier.
- Optional extra chocolate chips enhance the molten chocolate experience.
- Letting brownies cool too long will reduce gooeyness; serve warm.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate to adjust sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate lava brownies, molten brownies, fudgy brownies, easy brownie recipe, chocolate dessert, gooey brownies, chocolate chunks brownies

