Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake a rich, gooey chocolate cake topped with a heavenly hot fudge sauce that magically forms as it bakes. This dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and makes an indulgent treat when paired with ice cream or whipped cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a one-pan wonder with minimal cleanup.
The hot fudge sauce forms underneath the cake, adding a luxurious touch without extra steps.
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations.
Best served warm, offering a comforting and indulgent experience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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 (unsweetened preferred)
1-1/4 cups boiling water
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan. Pre-boil the water in a kettle to have it ready.
Make the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Prepare the Fudge Sauce: In another bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup white sugar, brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder. Sprinkle this dry mixture evenly over the batter.
Add the Water: Slowly pour the boiling water over the top of the batter. Do not stir or mix. The water will sit on top.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cools. Spoon the cake and sauce into bowls and serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Variations
Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
Coffee Lovers: Replace 1/4 cup of the boiling water with brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the cake batter for a unique twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to revive the gooey texture.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat individual servings before serving.
Can I freeze this pudding cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the fudge sauce may separate during thawing, altering the texture.
What can I serve with this cake?
I love serving it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
Dark chocolate can’t replace cocoa powder directly, but you can add chopped dark chocolate to the batter for an extra-rich flavor.
Why does the boiling water sit on top of the batter?
The water helps create the hot fudge sauce layer during baking, so it’s important not to stir after pouring it.
Conclusion
Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a showstopping dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. With its moist cake layer and velvety fudge sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any chocolate lover. Try it warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
📖 Recipe
Print
Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake that creates its own gooey fudge sauce while baking. This one-pan wonder is perfect for chocolate lovers, offering a comforting, indulgent dessert with minimal cleanup. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Fudge Sauce:
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
3 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1–1/4 cups boiling water
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan. Boil water in advance for the fudge sauce.
Mix the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
Prepare Fudge Sauce: In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup white sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour the boiling water over the top of the batter. Do not stir.
Bake: Bake for 35 minutes or until the center is nearly set.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool for 15 minutes. The sauce thickens as it cools. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
For added crunch, fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts.
Replace 1/4 cup boiling water with brewed coffee for a richer chocolate flavor.
Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free dessert.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 290 kcal
