Date Night Chocolate Fudge Cakes for 2 are rich, gooey, and deeply chocolatey — perfect for when I want to share a sweet moment with someone special or just treat myself to a decadent dessert. These little lava-style cakes have a warm, fudgy center and a soft, cakey outer layer that feels indulgent without making a huge batch. When I crave something chocolatey and cozy, this recipe is my go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and easy these cakes are to make — no fancy techniques, just a few simple ingredients and about 20 minutes from start to finish. The fudgy center is so satisfying, and they’re the perfect size for sharing without going overboard. Whether I’m planning a romantic night in or just want a small-batch dessert, these fudge cakes hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Unsalted butter
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Semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
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Granulated sugar
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Egg
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Egg yolk
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Vanilla extract
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All-purpose flour
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Salt
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Powdered sugar or berries for serving (optional)
Directions
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I start by preheating the oven and buttering two small ramekins or oven-safe cups, then lightly dusting them with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, I melt the butter and chocolate together in short bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy.
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In another bowl, I whisk the egg, egg yolk, sugar, and vanilla until light and slightly thickened.
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I pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
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Then I fold in the flour and salt gently, mixing just until incorporated.
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I divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins and place them on a baking sheet.
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I bake the cakes until the edges are set but the centers still look soft — about 12–14 minutes.
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After baking, I let them cool for a minute or two, then gently run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates. Sometimes I just serve them straight from the ramekins if I’m feeling casual.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 individual fudge cakes. It takes me about 10 minutes to prep and 12–14 minutes to bake, so the whole process is done in under 25 minutes.
Variations
When I want to switch things up, I add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor. Sometimes I mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter, Nutella, or even a caramel square in the center before baking for a fun surprise. I’ve also made a spiced version with a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a little kick.
storage/reheating
These cakes are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, but if I happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), I store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat them gently in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to get that gooey center back.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the batter and pour it into the ramekins, then cover and refrigerate. When I’m ready to bake, I bring them to room temperature and pop them in the oven.
What size ramekins should I use?
I use 6-ounce ramekins — they’re the perfect size for this recipe and allow the cakes to rise nicely while keeping the center soft.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?
I’ve used chocolate chips in a pinch, and they work fine. I just make sure to use good-quality ones since the flavor really stands out.
How do I know when they’re done?
I look for set edges and a slightly jiggly center. If I overbake, I lose the fudgy center, so I pull them out as soon as the top looks set but soft.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, I’ve swapped the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend and had great results. The texture stays rich and fudgy.
Conclusion
These Date Night Chocolate Fudge Cakes for 2 are the perfect dessert when I want something rich, warm, and chocolatey without a lot of leftovers. They feel elegant but are incredibly easy to whip up in just minutes. Whether I’m sharing or savoring them solo, they always make the moment feel extra special.
Print
Date Night Chocolate Fudge Cakes for 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 2 cakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Date Night Chocolate Fudge Cakes for 2 are rich, gooey, and perfectly portioned molten-style chocolate cakes with soft edges and a warm, fudgy center. Ideal for sharing or indulging solo, they’re fast, easy, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (plus more for greasing ramekins)
- 2 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- Cocoa powder (for dusting ramekins)
- Optional: powdered sugar or fresh berries for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter two 6-ounce ramekins and dust with cocoa powder.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and chopped chocolate in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, sugar, and vanilla until light and slightly thickened.
- Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
- Gently fold in flour and salt just until incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, until the edges are set but centers are soft and slightly jiggly.
- Cool for 1–2 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates, or serve directly in ramekins.
Notes
- Add 1 tsp espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Place a teaspoon of peanut butter, Nutella, or caramel in the center before baking for a molten surprise.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a spiced variation.
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version.
- Batter can be made ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temp before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cake
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
