Failed Lava Cake: Lessons Learned in the Kitchen

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around personal experiences and insights related to making molten lava cake, particularly focusing on challenges encountered and variations in preparation methods. Participants share their outcomes and thoughts on frosting placement and cooking times.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of following the recipe but not achieving the desired lava effect, noting that the frosting cooked into the cake.
  • Another participant recalls experimenting with frosting placement in the batter and suggests that adding frosting after baking may yield better results.
  • Several users mention checking the cake's progress after 8 minutes to avoid overcooking, with one participant emphasizing the importance of monitoring the baking time based on microwave wattage.
  • One participant discusses a past experience where frosting in contact with the cooker burned, leading to an unpleasant smell.
  • Another participant describes their method of mixing the entire cake in one bowl and using a medium scoop for frosting placement, which they find impressive during demonstrations.
  • Some participants express interest in experimenting with different methods of frosting placement, including putting frosting in first.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best method for frosting placement and cooking times, with no clear consensus emerging on the optimal approach for achieving the desired lava effect.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and variations in their approaches to making molten lava cake, reflecting a range of cooking environments and microwave wattages.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants interested in sharing cooking experiences or looking for insights on making molten lava cake may find this discussion valuable.

BettieC
Gold Member
Messages
390
Ok, I made this the other day for home. I followed the recipe cooked it for 10 minutes, and I didn't get the lava effect.

Although yummy, it seemed the frosting cooked right into the cake....lol
 
Was the center a wet mess? Back when this recipe was first being used (Fall 2005 or 2006), we experimented with putting scoops of the chocolate frosting in the wet batter.
We finally decided that once the cake was "baked" in the microwave, it was better to
put the three to four scoops of frosting on the warm cake and let it oooze over the sides
and maybe puddle on the platter, or scoop it back up and make the top frosting thicker with the side frosting just createing nice fingers down the side.

Be sure to check the progress of the "baking" after about 8 minutes, and then if it has
pulled away from the sides, check the center. Increase the "baking" time by one minute at a time until it is done. Let is set in the microwave for 5 minutes before turning out on the platter you will serve it on. THEN, decorate with your frosting as suggested above.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
When I flipped it over the top was wet like, but not uncooked cake.

I think next time I will start checking after 8 mins or so....thnx
 
I wouldn't go more than the 8 minutes unless the micro has low wattage. Also, I have found that a little more than 1/2 can frosting may help.

I am thinking of experimenting with putting the frosting in first and then topping with cake mixture to ensure frosting is on top. Would that be a disaster?
 
DessertDivaFL said:
I wouldn't go more than the 8 minutes unless the micro has low wattage. Also, I have found that a little more than 1/2 can frosting may help.

I am thinking of experimenting with putting the frosting in first and then topping with cake mixture to ensure frosting is on top. Would that be a disaster?

The problem with that is you won't be able to mix the cake in the RCP if the frosting is already in there. When I demo the molten lava cake I make a point to show that the whole thing is mixed in the same bowl as it's cooked in. People are very impressed with that. Then I use our medium scoop to put 5 scoops of frosting (1 in the middle surrounded by 4 scoops) into the batter. I always check after 8 minutes. And I also use the pocket thermometer--it should read 160 degrees--to make sure it's done, which also demo's another product.
 
DessertDivaFL said:
I wouldn't go more than the 8 minutes unless the micro has low wattage. Also, I have found that a little more than 1/2 can frosting may help.

I am thinking of experimenting with putting the frosting in first and then topping with cake mixture to ensure frosting is on top. Would that be a disaster?

I don't think you want the frosting in direct oncontact with the cooker. The first time I did this I dolloped the frosting around the top (not knowing it should be in the middle). Some of the frosting was touching the side of the cooker and I guess due to high sugar content of the frosting it burnt in the micro. The smell was horrible!!
 
KimoMakano said:
I don't think you want the frosting in direct oncontact with the cooker. The first time I did this I dolloped the frosting around the top (not knowing it should be in the middle). Some of the frosting was touching the side of the cooker and I guess due to high sugar content of the frosting it burnt in the micro. The smell was horrible!!

Yes, makes sense to me. I think the only way my theory will work is if I did this with the fluted pan.
 
PamperedchefDaly said:
When I demo the molten lava cake I make a point to show that the whole thing is mixed in the same bowl as it's cooked in. People are very impressed with that. Then I use our medium scoop to put 5 scoops of frosting

I do mine this way, too. I have even put the whole container of icing right in the middle. Always works our great with lots of delish. 'chocolate lava' :love:
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common reasons for a failed lava cake?

Common reasons for a failed lava cake include overbaking, which can cause the center to set completely, and incorrect oven temperatures. Additionally, using the wrong type of chocolate or not allowing the cakes to cool slightly before serving can also lead to disappointing results.

How can I ensure my lava cake has a gooey center?

To ensure a gooey center, it's crucial to bake the lava cakes for the right amount of time—typically around 12-14 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains soft. Using high-quality chocolate and following the recipe closely will also help achieve that desired molten texture.

What should I do if my lava cake doesn't rise?

If your lava cake doesn't rise, it may be due to overmixing the batter or not incorporating enough air. Make sure to mix just until combined and avoid overbeating the eggs. Additionally, check that your baking powder or baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise.

Can I make lava cakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare lava cakes in advance. You can make the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it in the ramekins. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the fridge, but be aware that you may need to add a minute or two to the baking time.

What are some tips for serving lava cakes?

When serving lava cakes, let them cool for a minute or two before inverting them onto a plate to maintain their shape. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of ice cream for added flavor. Drizzling with chocolate sauce or fresh berries can also enhance the presentation and taste.

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