Decadent Red Velvet Lava is an irresistible dessert that brings together the rich flavors of red velvet cake and the delightful surprise of a molten center. These lava cakes are the perfect indulgence for special occasions or simply when you want to treat yourself. With their stunning red color and creamy filling, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will elevate your dessert game!
Why You’ll Love This Decadent Red Velvet Lava
This Decadent Red Velvet Lava cake offers several reasons to fall in love with it. First, it features a rich red velvet cake that is both visually stunning and delicious. Second, the creamy molten center adds an indulgent twist that takes your taste buds on a delightful journey. Third, it’s a quick dessert that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute celebrations. Fourth, this gourmet red velvet lava cake is suitable for vegetarians, so everyone can enjoy it. Additionally, it can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra luxurious treat. Lastly, this recipe is adaptable; you can incorporate different flavors or fillings to make it your own!
Ingredients for Decadent Red Velvet Lava
Gather these items:
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Decadent Red Velvet Lava Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter 4–6 ramekins and dust with cocoa powder.
- Step 2: Make the cream cheese lava: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Chill in the fridge.
- Step 3: Whisk dry ingredients: Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Step 4: Whisk wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, vanilla, and red gel food coloring.
- Step 5: Fold dry into wet: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Step 6: Assemble: Spoon batter into each ramekin, add cream cheese in the center, and top with more batter.
- Step 7: Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12–14 minutes.
- Step 8: Rest and unmold: Cool for 3 minutes, then invert onto plates.
- Step 9: Serve warm: Cut into cakes to reveal the ooze and dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.

Pro Tips for the Best Decadent Red Velvet Lava
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your oven is preheated properly for even baking.
- Don’t overmix the batter; gentle folding helps maintain the cake’s texture.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate ganache or a layer of fruit, for unique red velvet dessert options.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best ooze effect!
Best Ways to Serve Decadent Red Velvet Lava
Here are some delightful serving ideas:
- Pair your Decadent Red Velvet Lava with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Top with fresh berries for added sweetness and a pop of color.
- Drizzle with rich chocolate sauce to enhance the indulgent flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Decadent Red Velvet Lava
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore the gooey center. This is perfect for meal prep or an easy dessert on a busy night!
Frequently Asked Questions About Decadent Red Velvet Lava
What is red velvet lava cake?
A Decadent Red Velvet Lava cake is a dessert that combines the flavors of red velvet cake with a molten chocolate center, creating a deliciously gooey filling that flows out when you cut into it.
Can I make Decadent Red Velvet Lava ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and fill the ramekins ahead of time. Just refrigerate them, then bake right before serving for a fresh, warm dessert!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Decadent Red Velvet Lava?
To avoid common mistakes, make sure to time your baking carefully. Overbaking will result in a cake that doesn’t have that gooey center. Follow the instructions closely for the best results.
Variations of Decadent Red Velvet Lava You Can Try
Here are a few creative twists on the classic recipe:
- Try adding a layer of chocolate ganache for a rich combination.
- Incorporate a hint of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Use a different filling like peanut butter or Nutella for a unique experience.
- Experiment with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this indulgent red velvet dessert.
For more information on baking techniques, check out this baking guide. If you’re interested in other dessert recipes, visit our desserts section for more inspiration. You can also learn about the history of red velvet cake here.
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Decadent Red Velvet Lava: 6 Irresistible Recipes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible Red Velvet Lava Cakes
Ingredients
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter 4–6 ramekins and dust with cocoa powder.
- Make the cream cheese lava: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Chill in the fridge.
- Whisk dry ingredients: Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Whisk wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, vanilla, and red gel food coloring.
- Fold dry into wet: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Assemble: Spoon batter into each ramekin, add cream cheese in the center, and top with more batter.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12–14 minutes.
- Rest and unmold: Cool for 3 minutes, then invert onto plates.
- Serve warm: Cut into cakes to reveal the ooze and dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Decadent Red Velvet Lava, Lava Cake, Red Velvet Dessert