Introduction
This Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a dessert miracle! As it bakes, the magic happens: the rich cake layer rises to the top while a luscious, gooey fudge sauce forms beneath. My grandma used to call this her “never-fail dessert” because it always left everyone scraping their bowls for more. Whether for a cozy night in or to impress guests, this indulgent treat is guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Hot Fudge Sauce:
- 1 ¼ cups boiling water
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar-sized ovenproof dish.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. The batter will be thick.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter.
4. Add the Hot Fudge Sauce:
- Slowly pour the boiling water over the topping. Do not stir. The water will look strange sitting on top, but trust the process—it’s essential for creating the gooey fudge layer.
5. Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top of the cake is set and begins to crack slightly. The sauce will bubble beneath the surface.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Scoop out portions, making sure to get some of the fudge sauce from the bottom. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Boiling Water: The hot water is key to creating the fudge sauce. Pour it gently and evenly over the topping.
- Serve Fresh: This dessert is best served warm from the oven when the sauce is still gooey and the cake is tender.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Enjoy.