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Dairy-free chocolate lava cake with a molten center and vanilla ice cream.

Vegan Chocolate Lava Cakes

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with these vegan chocolate lava cakes—rich, decadent, and incredibly gooey in the center. Made with 100% plant-based ingredients, these dairy-free and egg-free lava cakes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth guilt-free. Whether for a romantic dessert, a dinner party, or simply a personal treat, this easy recipe guarantees a warm, molten center in every bite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine French, inspired, Vegan
Servings 3 lava cakes
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (for wet and dry ingredients)
  • Whisk (for mixing)
  • Spatula (for folding batter)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ramekins (2-3 individual size)
  • Small sieve (for sifting flour and cocoa powder)
  • Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
  • Oven (preheated to 375°F / 190°C)
  • Cooling rack (optional, for resting before serving)

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup 90g dairy-free dark chocolate, chopped (60% cocoa or higher)
  • 3 tablespoons coconut oil or vegan butter melted
  • ¼ cup 60ml plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water flax egg
  • ¼ cup 50g maple syrup or coconut sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup 30g all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • teaspoon salt
  • Extra dairy-free chocolate chunks for a molten center
  • Coconut oil or vegan butter
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease 2-3 ramekins with coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Dust the inside of each ramekin with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
  • In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil.
  • Melt using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  • In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water.
  • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to an egg-like consistency.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together plant-based milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (or coconut sugar).
  • Add the flax egg and whisk until combined.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  • Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
  • Pour in the melted chocolate mixture and gently stir until fully combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared ramekins, filling them ¾ full.
  • Place a small piece of dairy-free chocolate in the center of each ramekin and cover with a little more batter.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges look set but the center remains slightly jiggly.
  • Remove from the oven and let sit for 1-2 minutes.
  • Run a knife around the edges and carefully invert onto a plate.
  • Serve immediately with dairy-free ice cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce.

Notes

✔ Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave for 20 seconds before serving.
✔ Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
✔ Flavor Variations:
Espresso Lava Cakes: Add ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder to the batter for a rich mocha flavor.
Spicy Mexican Lava Cakes: Stir in ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper and ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a spicy kick.
Peanut Butter Lava Cakes: Add 1 teaspoon of peanut butter to the center of each cake before baking.
Enjoy your vegan chocolate lava cakes—a dessert that’s both indulgent and plant-based! 🍫✨
Keyword dairy-free dessert, easy vegan dessert, egg-free lava cake, gooey chocolate cake, plant-based chocolate cake, Vegan chocolate lava cake