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Ingredients for Ultimate Chocolate Lava Pancakes

Ultimate Chocolate Lava Pancakes with Vanilla Ice Cream Center

This ultimate chocolate lava pancakes with vanilla ice cream center is a simple dessert recipe made with everyday ingredients. Perfect for busy days and family meals.
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Ingredients
  

For the Pancakes:

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

1 large egg

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lava Filling:

4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For Serving:

Vanilla ice cream

Chocolate syrup

Whipped cream (optional)

Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Lava Filling:

    - In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped chocolate, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, then transfer to a piping bag or a small squeeze bottle. Place in the fridge to thicken for about 30 minutes.

      Make the Pancake Batter:

        - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

          - In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until combined.

            - Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

              Cook the Pancakes:

                - Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.

                  - Pour 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter.

                    Assemble the Lava Pancakes:

                      - To build the pancake stack, place one pancake on a serving plate. Squeeze a circle of the chocolate lava filling in the center of the pancake, then top with another pancake. Repeat this process with as many layers as desired.

                        - For the final top pancake, you can add an extra drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired.

                          Add the Ice Cream:

                            - Right before serving, scoop a generous ball of vanilla ice cream and place it on top of the pancakes. Allow it to slightly melt into the warm pancakes for that ultimate lava effect.

                              Garnish and Serve:

                                - Drizzle some chocolate syrup on top and decorate with whipped cream and fresh berries, if using. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious gooey chocolate lava that oozes out!

                                  Prep Time: 30 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 4