1. Prepare the Lava Center

• Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
• Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a mixing bowl. Let it sit for about 1 minute.
• Whisk the mixture until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about an hour, or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.

2. Preheat and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends above the edges. This will help contain the batter as it rises.
• Lightly grease the parchment paper with melted butter or nonstick spray for easy release.

3. Make the Cake Batter

• Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl. You can use a microwave in 20-second increments or a double boiler. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
• In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture turns pale and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
• Slowly fold the cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture, stirring until fully combined.
• In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

4. Assemble the Cake

• Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
• Remove the chilled lava center mixture from the refrigerator. Scoop small dollops of the firm chocolate ganache and place them evenly over the batter.
• Cover the ganache dollops with the remaining cake batter, ensuring the molten chocolate center is fully encased.

5. Bake the Cake

• Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The edges should be set, and the top should have a slightly cracked, rustic appearance. The center will remain slightly jiggly, ensuring a molten lava effect.
• Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before attempting to remove it.

6. Cool and Serve

• Carefully remove the cake from the springform pan. Dust the top with cocoa powder for a classic finish.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce and top with whipped cream for added indulgence.
• Serve warm to enjoy the molten lava center at its best!