Decadent Valentine’s Berry Chocolate Lava Bites
These easy-to-make lava bites combine rich molten dark chocolate with a tangy berry filling, perfect for romantic desserts or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 lava bites 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 oz (170 g) good-quality dark chocolate (Ghirardelli or Valrhona recommended)
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (75 g) fresh raspberries or strawberries, chopped (frozen thawed works too)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for berry filling)
- Optional garnish: powdered sugar for dusting, fresh mint leaves, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter or grease your mini muffin pan or silicone molds lightly to prevent sticking.
- Melt the chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and glossy. Alternatively, use a double boiler for gentle melting. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Whisk eggs and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine mixtures: Slowly fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to get an even batter without deflating it.
- Add vanilla and flour: Stir in the pure vanilla extract. Then sift in the flour and fold just until combined—do not overmix.
- Prepare berry filling: Toss the chopped berries with powdered sugar in a small bowl.
- Assemble: Spoon about 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of chocolate batter into each muffin cavity, add a small spoonful of the berry mixture in the center, then cover with another tablespoon of batter, fully enclosing the berries.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft and jiggly.
- Cool briefly: Let the lava bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully removing them.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh mint if desired, and enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
Use room temperature eggs for better batter rise. Do not overmix the batter to keep a tender crumb and molten center. Watch oven closely to avoid overbaking. Use good quality chocolate for best flavor and texture. Thaw frozen berries before use to avoid watery filling. Let lava bites cool briefly before removing from pan to maintain shape.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lava bite
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: chocolate lava bites, berry chocolate dessert, Valentine's Day dessert, molten chocolate, easy romantic dessert, homemade lava cake, berry filling dessert