The End of an Era: Chili's Discontinues the Mini Molten
For many families and customers looking for a smaller, indulgent treat, the mini molten chocolate cake from Chili's was a perfect choice. However, in early October 2025, the restaurant chain confirmed that the mini molten was being discontinued. This change was part of a broader effort to streamline the menu, shifting focus toward full-sized dessert portions instead. While customers can no longer satisfy their cravings with the mini version, the classic, full-size Molten Chocolate Cake remains a staple on the dessert menu.
Remembering the Mini Molten's Price
Before its removal, the price of the mini molten was subject to some variation depending on the restaurant's location and whether it was ordered through a third-party delivery service. Historical menu data showed prices hovering around the $4.99 to $6.59 mark. For many parents, this smaller, more affordable option was a relief compared to the larger, pricier desserts. Its disappearance prompted an immediate wave of disappointment on social media platforms, with many expressing frustration over the loss of a perfect, portion-controlled dessert option.
The Reason for the Discontinuation
According to a spokesperson from Chili's, the decision to remove the mini molten and other kids' menu items was driven by a desire for "simplification". This move allows the brand to focus on a more streamlined and efficient menu operation. The goal is to provide a more consistent experience across all locations, though it came at the cost of eliminating some popular, albeit smaller-sized, options. For fans of the mini treat, the only remaining molten cake is the full-sized version, a significant upsize in both portion and calories.
A Comparison of the Past and Present Molten Cakes
To better understand the shift, let's compare the discontinued mini molten to the current full-size Molten Chocolate Cake.
| Feature | Discontinued Mini Molten (Historical) | Full-Size Molten Chocolate Cake (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$4.99 - $6.59 (Varies) | ~$8.99+ (Varies) |
| Calories | ~570-670 kcal | Reportedly higher, based on portion size |
| Toppings | Vanilla ice cream & thin chocolate shell | Vanilla ice cream, chocolate shell, & caramel drizzle |
| Availability | Discontinued as of Oct 2025 | Currently available on the dessert menu |
| Best For | Portion control, kids, or lighter appetites | Indulgent dessert, sharing, or serious cravings |
Exploring Other Dessert Options at Chili's
While the mini molten is gone, Chili's still offers a variety of desserts to satisfy a sweet tooth. Some alternatives include:
- Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie: A warm, homemade cookie baked with chocolate chunks, topped with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge.
- Peanut Butter Pie made with REESE'S®: A rich peanut butter and chocolate chip filling in a chocolate crust.
- Cheesecake: A classic New York-style cheesecake served with your choice of strawberry, chocolate, or caramel sauce.
Conclusion
While the disappearance of the mini molten is disappointing for many loyal Chili's customers, the decision reflects a broader business strategy aimed at menu simplification. Fans of the dessert can still get their chocolate fix with the larger, full-size Molten Chocolate Cake, but those who appreciated the mini version's price point and smaller size will need to find another way to indulge. The legacy of the mini molten lives on in the fond memories of diners who cherished its perfectly portioned deliciousness.
For the latest information on Chili's menu, visit their official dessert menu page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Mini Molten discontinued?
The Mini Molten was discontinued as part of a menu simplification effort by Chili's, a strategy confirmed by a company spokesperson in October 2025.
How much is the full-size Molten Chocolate Cake?
The price for the full-size Molten Chocolate Cake at Chili's typically starts around $8.99, but it can vary based on location.
Is there a similar, smaller dessert option on the menu now?
No, the mini molten was the only small-sized version of the molten cake. Chili's now only offers the full-size Molten Chocolate Cake on its menu.
What are some other desserts at Chili's?
Other dessert options at Chili's include the Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie, Peanut Butter Pie, and Cheesecake.
Why did Chili's change their kids' menu?
In addition to the Mini Molten, other kids' menu items like the Kids Pepperoni Pizza and Kids Cheese Quesadillas were also removed in October 2025 to simplify operations.
Was the mini molten cake removed from all Chili's locations?
Yes, the discontinuation was a company-wide change rolled out across all Chili's locations in the U.S. as part of a larger menu simplification effort.
Did Chili's announce the mini molten's removal ahead of time?
The discontinuation became public knowledge around early October 2025 after customer reports and confirmation from a Chili's spokesperson.
Is the mini molten still available for catering or party platters?
According to the official menu, the Mini Molten is no longer available. However, Chili's still offers "Party Platter Mini-Molten Cakes," a separate catering item featuring multiple small cakes.
Does Chili's offer any loyalty rewards for desserts?
Yes, customers can use Chili's rewards program to earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for various menu items, including some desserts.
Are there copycat recipes available for the mini molten?
Given the popularity of the dessert, there are many copycat recipes and articles available online that explain how to make molten lava cakes at home.
