A rich, indulgent dessert that fits perfectly into a carnivore or keto diet, this Carnivore Lava Cake is made with simple animal-based ingredients and delivers a creamy, molten center with every bite. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a high-protein, sugar-free treat that satisfies your sweet cravings without breaking your dietary goals.
Ingredients:
For the Lava Cake:
- 4 large egg yolks (room temperature)
- 2 whole eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 tbsp beef gelatin powder (for texture and richness)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp honey (optional, for those who prefer a hint of sweetness)
For Greasing the Ramekins:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp beef tallow (for extra richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease 4 ramekins or small oven-safe bowls with butter and beef tallow to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Blend the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
- Add the softened cream cheese and whisk thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain.
- Slowly mix in the beef gelatin powder, cocoa powder (if using), vanilla extract, heavy cream, sea salt, and honey.
- Continue whisking or use a hand mixer until a thick, smooth batter forms.
Step 3: Fill the Ramekins
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared ramekins, filling each about ¾ of the way full.
- Tap each ramekin gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft and jiggly.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool for 1-2 minutes.
- Carefully run a knife around the edges and invert each cake onto a plate.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the molten, gooey center!
Tips for the Perfect Carnivore Lava Cake
- Use high-quality butter and eggs: The flavor of this cake relies heavily on its animal-based ingredients, so opt for grass-fed butter and pasture-raised eggs for the best taste.
- Be careful with baking time: Overbaking will turn the center firm rather than gooey. Keep a close eye on the cakes.
- Customize your sweetness: If you prefer an ultra-carnivore version, skip the honey and cocoa powder.
- Make it even richer: Add a tablespoon of melted beef fat to the batter for extra decadence.
FAQs
1. Can I make this completely zero-carb?
Yes! Simply omit the honey and cocoa powder, and it will be a zero-carb, carnivore-friendly treat.
2. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set.
3. How do I store leftovers?
These cakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave for about 20 seconds before serving.
4. What can I pair with this?
Top with whipped heavy cream, butter, or serve alongside crispy bacon for a true carnivore experience.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, replace butter with beef tallow and cream cheese with blended pork rinds mixed with bone broth.
