Chocolate Volcanoes

These chocolate "volcanoes" are luscious and have a rich, molten chocolate center. They have an intense chocolate flavor that is sure to please whoever they are served to. It is a simple and elegant dish that should be served warm with plenty of chocolate sauce drizzeled on top!

8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate
1 stick butter (at room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sugar
3 tablespoons flour
pinch of salt
4 eggs

1. Grease a 6-cup muffin tin. In a medium mixing bowl, mix the flour, salt and sugar until combined.

2. In a double boiler (or simply a metal bowl placed over barely simmering water), melt butter and chocolate stirring often. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.

3. Add chocolate mixture to the flour, sugar, and salt and stir to combine. Using an electric mixer add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Chill for 2 hours.

4. Fill muffin tins and bake in an oven preheated to 325 degrees. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the middle is slightly soft and runny. Cool completely and then invert the pan onto a wire rack. Serve with whipped cream and chocolate sauce.