Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of red velvet cake and a gooey chocolate center. These cupcakes are perfect for a romantic dinner, birthday celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Their unique molten core makes them stand out, ensuring a memorable dessert experience.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cupcake Batter
- For the Molten Filling
- How to Make Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Step 6: Prepare Molten Filling
- Step 7: Fill Muffin Tin
- Step 8: Bake
- Step 9: Cool & Serve
- How to Serve Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Pair with Whipped Cream
- Serve with Fresh Berries
- Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- Top with Ice Cream
- Garnish with Mint Leaves
- How to Perfect Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Reheating Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe?
- Can I use other flavors instead of red velvet?
- How do I ensure my lava center is gooey?
- What can I substitute if I don’t have buttermilk?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of red velvet and chocolate creates a rich taste that delights every palate.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve these cupcakes warm, and watch as the molten center flows out, impressing your guests.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these treats without any hassle.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion like birthdays, anniversaries, or just a cozy night in.
- Fun to Customize: Add your favorite toppings or fillings to make each cupcake uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes, you’ll need a few essential tools. Being prepared will ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bags (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick muffin tin: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the cupcakes without mess.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps in achieving a smooth batter quickly, making the mixing process effortless.
- Piping bags: Useful for filling the cupcakes evenly with the molten chocolate center.

Ingredients
For the Cupcake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Molten Filling
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
How to Make Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Grease your non-stick muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with cupcake liners. This will help prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Sugar
3. Cocoa powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
Whisk until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Buttermilk
3. Eggs
4. Red food coloring
5. Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
Step 6: Prepare Molten Filling
Melt:
1. Semi-sweet chocolate
2. Unsalted butter
Stir until smooth and combined.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Tin
Spoon about one tablespoon of cupcake batter into each muffin cup. Then, add one teaspoon of the melted chocolate filling on top before covering it with more batter until each cup is about two-thirds full.
Step 8: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Step 9: Cool & Serve
Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for about five minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm for that gooey lava effect!
How to Serve Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
Serving Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes is all about presentation and pairing. A beautifully plated cupcake can enhance the overall experience, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that balances the rich chocolate flavor of the cupcake.
Serve with Fresh Berries
- A side of strawberries or raspberries offers a tart contrast that complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- Pouring warm chocolate sauce over the cupcakes enhances their molten center and elevates the dessert to a new level of indulgence.
Top with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream on top creates a delicious melting effect when served warm, intensifying the flavors.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- A sprig of fresh mint not only adds color but also provides a refreshing note that cuts through the richness of the cake.
How to Perfect Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
To ensure your Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips for baking success.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in creating a smoother batter, ensuring even mixing and better texture.
- Preheat your oven properly: A properly preheated oven ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly, achieving that perfect molten center.
- Grease your ramekins well: Proper greasing prevents sticking and allows for easy removal after baking, keeping the cupcake intact.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cupcakes; they should be slightly soft in the center when finished to maintain that molten lava effect.
- Let them rest briefly: Allowing the cupcakes to cool for about 1-2 minutes before serving will help set the edges while keeping the centers gooey.
Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes can create a more rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and sweet, these add a tropical twist that complements the rich chocolate flavor.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and balance to your dessert plate.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These elegant treats enhance the chocolate experience while adding a touch of sophistication.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone can provide a creamy contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
- Nut Brittle: Crunchy and sweet, nut brittle offers a delightful texture contrast alongside molten cupcakes.
- Mini Cheesecakes: These small bites introduce another layer of flavor, making for an exciting dessert spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can help you create the perfect Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the batter’s texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy results.
- Not chilling the batter: Failing to chill the batter can result in less gooey centers. Allow the batter to chill before baking to achieve that molten lava effect.
- Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different, so don’t rely solely on timers. Check your cupcakes a minute or two before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.
- Using incorrect cocoa powder: Regular cocoa powder can dull the flavor. Stick with high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your cupcakes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for best results.
- Microwave: Heat each cupcake on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cupcakes in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe?
A Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe features a rich red velvet cake exterior with a gooey chocolate center that flows when bitten into.
Can I use other flavors instead of red velvet?
Yes! You can experiment with chocolate or vanilla cake bases while keeping the molten center intact.
How do I ensure my lava center is gooey?
Make sure not to overbake your cupcakes. The centers should still be slightly undercooked when you take them out of the oven.
What can I substitute if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar, letting it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Final Thoughts
The Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes Recipe offers an irresistible combination of rich flavors and textures. Not only are they visually stunning, but they also provide a delightful surprise with their molten center. Feel free to customize them by adding different fillings or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion!
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Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Red Velvet Molten Lava Cupcakes, where rich red velvet cake meets a decadent chocolate center that flows with every bite. These impressive cupcakes are perfect for celebrations or a cozy dessert at home. Their unique molten core not only makes them visually stunning but also offers an unforgettable taste sensation that will leave your guests clamoring for more. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them the ideal treat for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create these delicious confections that promise to wow everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a non-stick muffin tin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; some lumps are okay.
- Melt semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter together until smooth.
- Fill each muffin cup with a tablespoon of batter, add a teaspoon of the melted chocolate filling, then top with more batter until two-thirds full.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes; centers should be soft when finished.
- Cool briefly before serving warm to enjoy the gooey center.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg





