Name: Gooey Lava Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup white sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 6 oz high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chips; Optional: 1 tsp espresso powder for enhanced chocolate flavor

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
6 oz high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chips
Optional: 1 tsp espresso powder for enhanced chocolate flavor

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Instructions

Prepare the molten chocolate center: Melt 4 oz of chocolate with 2 tbsp heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free). Chill until firm, then form into 12 small balls.
Make the cookie dough: Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
Assemble cookies: Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten slightly, place a chocolate ganache ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Seal edges carefully.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are set and centers are slightly underbaked.

Cool & serve: Let cool 2–3 minutes. Break open to enjoy the molten chocolate center. Optional: Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes