Molten Caramel Lava Cakes with Cracked Sugar Topping

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1/4 cup water (for topping)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 6 ramekins and dust with flour.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
3. Add melted butter, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among 6 greased and floured ramekins.
5. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1/4 cup brown sugar over medium heat. Cook until sugar dissolves and turns golden brown.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon butter until melted and smooth.
7. Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of each ramekin, then pour the batter over the caramel.
8. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges of each cake and invert onto a plate.
10. Serve immediately with the cracked sugar crust and molten caramel center.