While they are similar, there are differences between soufflé and lava cakes. • Most of the ingredients are the same, but the main difference lies in the texture and how they are presented.  • A soufflé is fully cooked, whereas a lava cake has a runny, lava-like center. However a soufflé is moist in the center. • A soufflé is usually served in the ramekin, while a molten lava cake is popped out of the ramekin and served on a plate, so you can see the lava flow out when you cut into it.