Decadent, gooey, and undeniably rich, hot fudge chocolate pudding cake is a dessert lover’s dream. This magical treat creates its own luscious fudge sauce as it bakes, leaving you with a soft cake on top and a pool of warm chocolate sauce beneath. It’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Self-saucing magic: The cake forms its own fudge sauce as it bakes—no extra steps required.
- Perfect for chocoholics: Loaded with intense chocolate flavor in every bite.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Butter, melted
- Vanilla extract
- Brown sugar
- Boiling water
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and additional cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
- Carefully pour the boiling water over the top without stirring.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top looks set and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Scoop out portions to reveal the gooey fudge sauce underneath.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 6-8 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Espresso kick: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a mocha flavor.
- Nutty twist: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Dark chocolate lovers: Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.
- Spiced delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to restore the gooey texture.
FAQs
1. What makes this cake self-saucing?
The boiling water poured over the batter creates steam, which combines with the sugar and cocoa to form the sauce beneath the cake layer as it bakes.
2. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated and brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute, but the flavor may vary.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
4. What can I serve with hot fudge chocolate pudding cake?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries pair perfectly with the rich chocolate flavor.
5. Can I make this in advance?
It’s best served warm and fresh, but you can reheat portions as needed.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed.
7. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.
8. What type of cocoa powder works best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal. For a richer flavor, try Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
9. Can I use milk instead of water for the sauce?
Boiling water is essential to creating the sauce’s consistency. Milk can alter the texture and flavor.
10. How can I tell when the cake is done?
The top of the cake should look set, and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion (not the sauce) should come out clean.
Conclusion
Hot fudge chocolate pudding cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that combines a rich, moist cake with a heavenly chocolate sauce. With its simple preparation and indulgent results, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering. Serve it warm with your favorite topping and watch it disappear in seconds!
Print
Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert Chocolate
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a magical dessert where a rich, gooey chocolate sauce forms underneath a soft, fudgy cake as it bakes. It’s an easy and irresistible treat perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving.
Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (20g) unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Hot Fudge Sauce:
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) hot water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish or a similar-sized pan.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the dish.
- Add the Hot Fudge Sauce:
- Slowly pour the hot water over the topping layer. Do not stir—the liquid will sit on top and create the sauce as it bakes.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly puffed. The sauce will be bubbling underneath.
- Serve:
- Let the cake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls, making sure to scoop up the gooey fudge sauce. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to restore the gooey texture.
- Add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts can be mixed into the batter for extra texture.