This Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream! With a moist, tender cake on top and a rich, gooey fudge sauce beneath, every bite is indulgent and satisfying. Perfect as a cozy dessert for a chilly evening or an impressive treat for guests, this recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly rewarding. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or plain flour)
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Fudge Sauce:
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan. Pre-boil water in a kettle while preparing the cake.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3️⃣ Pour the Batter:
- Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
4️⃣ Make the Fudge Sauce:
- In another bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder.
- Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the batter.
5️⃣ Add the Boiling Water:
- Slowly pour the boiling water over the top of the sugar mixture. Do not stir or mix the water into the batter; it will naturally create a fudge layer during baking.
6️⃣ Bake the Cake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the cake’s center is almost set.
7️⃣ Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
- Serve warm in dessert dishes. Spoon the rich fudge sauce from the bottom of the pan over each serving. Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent finish.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 252 Kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 35 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
Tips and Notes:
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Using unsweetened cocoa powder gives the dessert a deeper chocolate flavor. However, feel free to use sweetened cocoa if you prefer a sweeter cake.
- Pan Choice: A 9-inch square baking pan works best for this recipe, but you can also use a similar-sized baking dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dessert pairs beautifully with vanilla bean ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate syrup can add an extra touch of indulgence.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, but this dessert is best served fresh and warm. If making ahead, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back its gooey texture.
2. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
3. Can I substitute any ingredients?
You can substitute almond milk for regular milk or use dairy-free butter to make it vegan. For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
4. Why does the boiling water sit on top?
The boiling water combines with the sugar and cocoa to create a thick fudge sauce at the bottom of the pan while the cake bakes on top.
Conclusion
Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a classic dessert that’s easy to make yet impressively delicious. Its rich chocolate flavor, combined with the warm, gooey fudge sauce, makes it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in a quiet night at home or serving guests, this cake is sure to satisfy every chocolate craving. Try it today, and savor the sweet magic of this timeless recipe! 🍫🍰