Name: Churro Lava Cakes with Cinnamon Sugar and Rich Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz dark/semi-sweet chocolate, broken into pieces; 1/4 cup canned lite coconut milk or heavy cream; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup plain/all purpose flour; 1 tablespoon white sugar, granulated sweetener or coconut sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 4 tablespoons light butter or spread (melted, or canola oil/melted coconut oil); 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup low fat milk or almond milk; 1 tablespoon light butter or spread (melted); 1/4 cup sugar of choice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated exteriors with a molten, velvety chocolate center, then this Churro Lava Cakes with Cinnamon Sugar and Rich Chocolate Ganache Recipe is going to be your new obsession. Imagine biting into a warm cake with that iconic churro crunch, followed by a luscious eruption of rich chocolate ganache that just melts in your mouth. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that feels both luxuriously indulgent and comfortingly familiar — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether it’s for a cozy night in or impressing guests with something extra special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with two visible layers: a white creamy liquid around the edges and a rich, dark brown chocolate layer in the center. A silver spoon is swirling the chocolate, creating smooth, round patterns and steam rises gently above, showing warmth. The bowl's rim has traces of chocolate where it touched the glass. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because it uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary dessert. Each item plays a key role, from giving the cakes their soft, tender crumb to providing that signature cinnamon-sugar coating and, of course, the gorgeous molten chocolate core.

4 oz block chocolate: Choose dark or semi-sweet for a deep, rich flavor in your ganache.
1/4 cup canned lite coconut milk: Adds creaminess to the ganache without overpowering the chocolate.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and complexity in both batter and ganache.
1 cup plain/all purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to your cakes.
1 tablespoon white sugar: Sweetness that balances the chocolate’s bitterness gently.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Just the right amount to elevate all flavors.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cakes rise and stay tender.
4 tablespoons light butter (melted): Brings moisture and richness to the batter.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds to the soft texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Supports the cozy flavors in the batter itself.
1/2 cup low-fat milk (or almond milk): Keeps the batter moist and light.
1 tablespoon light butter (melted) for coating: Helps cinnamon sugar stick perfectly to the cakes.
1/4 cup sugar of choice: For that irresistible cinnamon-sugar crunch.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic churro spice that complements the chocolate beautifully.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Churro Lava Cakes with Cinnamon Sugar and Rich Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ganache

Let’s start with the star of the show—the rich chocolate ganache that flows from the center of each cake. Break the chocolate into chunks and combine it with the coconut milk (or heavy cream) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it gently in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until the chocolate melts smoothly into a glossy, luscious cream. Stir in the vanilla extract and pop the ganache into the fridge to set for about an hour. This step builds the molten magic you’ll discover in every bite.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dishes

While the ganache chills, preheat your oven to 176°C (350°F). Lightly grease eight small ramekins or a muffin tray — these will hold just about 1/4 cup of batter each. Wiping away excess grease ensures your cakes slide out perfectly once baked, preserving their delicate texture.

Step 3: Whisk the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Create a well in the center, then add melted butter, the egg, vanilla, and milk. Whisk everything until the batter is silky smooth with no lumps—that perfect consistency helps your cakes rise just right while keeping them tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Cakes

Take the ganache from the fridge and spoon about a tablespoon right into the center of each ramekin. Then, pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter carefully over the ganache to completely cover it. This layering is what makes your lava cake experience so incredible—a delicate cake shell concealing molten chocolate treasure.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cakes for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color with edges set but the center still soft. A toothpick inserted into the edges should come out clean; the secret gooey middle is perfectly hidden inside. This timing gives you that dreamy contrast between crisp exterior and flowing core.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

After baking, give them 5 minutes to cool just enough to handle. Gently loosen the cakes from their molds with a butter knife, then transfer them to a baking tray. Brush each cake with a light coating of melted butter, then carefully roll them in a cinnamon-sugar mix to achieve that iconic churro-like crust. Be gentle here because the cakes are still delicate and soft.

Step 7: Optional Extra Ganache Filling

If you want to take it further, warm up any leftover ganache until it’s pourable again—add a splash of milk or cream if needed. Cut a small well into the top of each cake and fill it with additional ganache, creating pockets of ooey-gooey deliciousness inside and out.

How to Serve Churro Lava Cakes with Cinnamon Sugar and Rich Chocolate Ganache Recipe

The image shows several white ramekins filled with a smooth, creamy yellow batter. Each ramekin holds two layers: the bottom layer is a thick yellow batter with a glossy texture, and the top layer consists of a small dollop of dark brown chocolate-like substance placed in the center. A pour of the yellow batter is being added to one ramekin from above, creating swirling patterns on the surface. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation, dust the cakes with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is heavenly alongside each warm cake, adding creaminess that contrasts the cinnamon-sugar crunch. Fresh berries can add a fresh pop of color and a touch of tartness that wakes up the palate.

Side Dishes

These cakes are best enjoyed as a standalone dessert, but if you’re ambitious, serving them with a side of fresh fruit salad or a lightly brewed espresso complements the experience beautifully. The fresh acidity of fruit pairs so well with the sweet, spiced cakes, while coffee cuts through the richness with a playful bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine plate art with a swipe of chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle underneath each cake to add visual flair. You can even serve multiple smaller cakes on a shared platter with different dipping sauces like salted caramel or berry coulis to jazz up your dessert table. Personalize by topping with edible flowers or chopped nuts for texture and color contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover churro lava cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because these cakes are soft and delicate, make sure they’re covered well to prevent drying out and maintain that lovely moist texture.

Freezing

Want to prepare these treats in advance? Once cooled, wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to a month. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven to restore that freshly baked feel.

Reheating

Since these cakes have that prized molten center, reheat them cautiously. A short burst of 20-30 seconds in the microwave or warming in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes works best. This method refreshes the cinnamon sugar crust while keeping your molten ganache beautifully luscious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best for rich flavor, but feel free to use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, creamier ganache. Just adjust sugar levels if necessary.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil. Almond milk or other plant-based milks are great swaps to keep it vegan-friendly while retaining all the flavor.

Why do the cakes have to chill before baking?

Chilling the ganache ensures it firms up so it creates that luscious molten center inside the cake instead of dissolving into the batter during baking.

What’s the best way to remove the cakes from ramekins?

Let the cakes cool slightly, then run a butter knife gently around the edges to loosen. Invert onto a tray or plate and tap gently to release. Using well-greased ramekins makes this so much easier.

Can I make these cakes in advance for a party?

Definitely! You can prepare the batter and ganache ahead of time and assemble the cakes before baking. Alternatively, bake in advance, refrigerate or freeze, and reheat just before serving for a fuss-free dessert.

Final Thoughts

If you want to bring a big smile to everyone’s face and fill your kitchen with that magical aroma of cinnamon and melting chocolate, you have to try this Churro Lava Cakes with Cinnamon Sugar and Rich Chocolate Ganache Recipe. It’s a joyful celebration of textures and flavors that feels impressive but comes together simply. Bake a batch, share the love, and savor every gooey, golden bite—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this exquisite dessert in your repertoire!