High-Protein Chocolate Lava Cake

Because sometimes, you just need cake — fast

This healthy chocolate lava cake is rich, gooey, and packed with protein—aka, the perfect excuse to have dessert whenever you want. It’s made with simple ingredients, takes less than 15 minutes, and gets that molten center just right. Plus, we’re using an air fryer, so no oven needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in protein – Cottage cheese + protein powder make this more than just a treat.

• Quick & easy – From mixing to eating in under 15 minutes.

• Minimal ingredients – Everything is simple, wholesome, and easy to find.

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Prep Time: 5 minutes I Cook time: 8 min I 2 servings

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (blend for smoothness)

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp maple syrup (or to taste)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder (or 3 tbsp for a deeper flavor)

• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (about ¼ cup)

• Pinch of salt (optional, but recommended)

Lava Center:

• 2 small squares of dark chocolate or 1 tbsp chocolate chips

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or fresh berries

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Instructions:

1. Make the Batter: Blend the cottage cheese for a smooth texture. Whisk with eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla. Stir in cocoa powder, protein powder, and salt.

2. Fill & Add Chocolate: Grease 2-3 ramekins. Fill each ⅔ full, then press a piece of chocolate into the center.

3. Air Fry: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Cook for 8-10 minutes—edges should be set, center slightly soft.

4. Serve & Enjoy: Let it cool for a minute, then dig in. Best eaten warm!

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Tips & Notes

• Blend the cottage cheese – This ensures a smooth, creamy batter. If you skip this step, expect a slightly grainy texture.

• Don’t overcook – The key to a gooey center is taking it out when the middle still looks slightly soft. It will continue to set as it cools.

• Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter cake, add an extra teaspoon of maple syrup or a pinch of stevia.

• Ramekin size matters – If using a larger ramekin, your cake may need an extra minute or two to cook. Check at the 8-minute mark.

Substitutions & Variations

• Dairy-free option – Swap the cottage cheese for blended silken tofu or a thick dairy-free yogurt.

• No protein powder? – Use an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder and one tablespoon of almond flour for structure.

• Different sweeteners – Instead of maple syrup, try honey, agave, or a sugar-free syrup alternative.

• Oven method – If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the center so it stays molten.

• Microwave shortcut – For a faster version, microwave on high for 45-60 seconds. The texture will be slightly different but still soft and gooey.

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Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! 🎀