Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake 🍫🍰

 

This is a two-part recipe: one for the cake batter, and one for the fudge sauce. The combination creates that dreamy layered effect once baked.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or plain flour) – Your base for the cake layer.

  • 1/2 cup white granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake base.

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder – Unsweetened cocoa works best for that rich flavor.

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise and form a fluffy top.

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweet and enhances chocolate flavor.

  • 3/4 cup milk – Adds moisture and brings the batter together.

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – For that soft, buttery cake texture.

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – A warm, fragrant touch.

For the Fudge Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup white granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – Adds depth and molasses notes.

  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened preferred) – Intensifies the chocolatey flavor.

  • 1 1/4 cups boiling water – This is what activates the sauce-making magic.

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan. Set a kettle to boil — you’ll need the water for the sauce shortly.

2. Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, combine:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder

  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Whisk to combine evenly.

Add in:

  • 3/4 cup milk

  • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until smooth and mostly lump-free. Pour this batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

3. Mix the Sauce Topping

In a small bowl, mix together:

  • 1/2 cup white sugar

  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder

Evenly sprinkle this dry topping mixture across the batter in the pan.

4. Add the Hot Water (But Don’t Stir!)

Now here’s the secret sauce—literally! Slowly pour 1¼ cups of boiling water directly over the back of a spoon onto the surface of the topping. The goal is to gently float the water on top. Do NOT stir. It may look strange, but trust the process!

5. Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top of the cake looks set and firm, but the center may still jiggle slightly (that’s the sauce underneath!).

6. Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let sit for 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Scoop into dessert bowls, making sure to spoon some of that gooey chocolate sauce from the bottom over the top of each serving. For the ultimate experience, top with:

  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨

  • Whipped cream

  • A drizzle of chocolate syrup (if you’re feeling extra indulgent)

Notes

📌 Recipe Notes

  • Don’t reduce the boiling water – It may seem like a lot, but it’s essential for forming that fudge sauce underneath the cake layer.

  • Best served warm – This dessert shines when fresh from the oven.

  • Reheat leftovers – Store in the fridge and microwave in 20-second bursts with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

  • Author: niold.com