This decadent Hot Fudge Pudding Cake features a rich, gooey chocolate sauce that forms underneath a fluffy cake layer while baking. It's a classic dessert that's perfect for any occasion and delivers bakery-style comfort at home.
2tbspunsweetened cocoa powderplus extra for dusting
2tspbaking powderaluminum-free
0.5tspsalt
0.75cupwhole milkroom temperature
1tbspvegetable oil
1tspvanilla extractvanilla bean is preferable
Fudge Sauce
0.75cupbrown sugarpacked
0.25cupgranulated sugar
0.33cupunsweetened cocoa powder
1.5cupshot waterboiling, from kettle
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish and dust the bottom with a little cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, 0.75 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk to combine thoroughly.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until just combined and the batter is smooth.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, 0.25 cup granulated sugar, and 0.33 cup cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly and gently on top of the batter.
Carefully pour the boiling hot water over the top of the entire mixture. DO NOT STIR. This will create the fudge layer underneath.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is set and a cake-like layer has formed. The center should still look wet and saucy—this is the fudge layer.
Let cool for 15 minutes before serving. Scoop from the dish with a large spoon, making sure to get both cake and sauce with each serving.
Notes
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence. Leftovers can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated for a few minutes in the oven.