Gooey Chocolate Lava Cookies

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### **Instructions:**

**1. Preheat & Prep**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

**2. Cream Butter & Sugars**
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

**3. Add Wet Ingredients**
Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

**4. Combine Dry Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

**5. Fold in Chocolate Chips**
Stir in the chocolate chips for that extra hit of gooey goodness throughout the cookie.

**6. Assemble the Lava Magic**
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten it slightly in your hand, place a piece of baking chocolate in the center, and wrap the dough around it. Seal the edges and roll into a ball.

**7. Bake**
Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for **10–12 minutes**, just until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. The centers will still be soft—don’t overbake!

**8. Cool (a Little) & Serve**
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack—or better yet, serve them warm so the lava center is still flowing.

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### **Serving Suggestions:**

– **Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream** for the ultimate dessert
– **Dust with powdered sugar** for a bakery-style finish
– **Pair with fresh berries** for a touch of tartness
– **Dip in milk**—because why not?

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### **Final Thoughts:**

These Gooey Chocolate Lava Cookies are more than just dessert—they’re an experience. Perfect for chocoholics, comfort food seekers, or anyone who needs a moment of joy baked into a cookie.

Whether you share them or keep them all to yourself (*no judgment here*), one thing’s for sure: this recipe is going straight to the top of your “make again” list.

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Want a gluten-free or vegan version? Or tips on freezing and baking later? Just say the word—I’ve got your sweet tooth covered! 🍫🍪