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Dark Chocolate Cherry Lava Muffins

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Rich and decadent dark chocolate cherry lava muffins with a soft, molten chocolate center and bursts of tart cherries. These bakery-style muffins combine deep chocolate flavor with gooey texture for an indulgent dessert perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
  • 1 cup cherries (fresh, frozen, or jarred), pitted
  • 1/3 cup chocolate chunks for lava center (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate gently.
  6. Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter.
  7. Add a few cherries and an optional chocolate chunk into the center of each muffin cup for the molten lava effect.
  8. Top with the remaining batter and place a few more cherries on top.
  9. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
  10. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving warm for the best lava texture.

Notes

  • Add espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
  • White chocolate can be used for a sweeter variation.
  • Raspberries or strawberries work well instead of cherries.
  • A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness and chocolate richness.
  • Using frozen chocolate chunks in the center creates a more molten filling.
  • Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat briefly in the microwave to restore the lava center.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/dark-chocolate-cherry-lava-muffins/