There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, gooey chocolate cake. The Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake takes this classic dessert to the next level by combining a moist chocolate cake with a rich, fudgy sauce that forms beneath it as it bakes. This self-saucing pudding cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Let’s explore the magic of this recipe and why it’s a must-try for any chocolate lover.
Why We Love This Recipe
The Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why we adore this recipe:
- Self-Saucing Magic: The cake creates its own fudgy sauce as it bakes, resulting in a moist cake with a luscious chocolate layer underneath.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Who can resist the allure of a warm, gooey chocolate cake? This dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
- Versatile: Serve it as-is, or dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Ingredients
To create this chocolatey masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 3/4 cups (420ml) hot water
How to Make This Recipe
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
Prepare Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Prepare Chocolate Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cocoa powder for the topping.
- Evenly sprinkle the topping mixture over the cake batter.
Assemble and Bake:
- Carefully pour the hot water over the top without stirring. This will create the fudgy sauce layer beneath the cake.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is firm and the edges have slightly pulled away from the dish.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Scoop the warm cake into bowls, ensuring to include some of the rich chocolate sauce.
- Serve as-is, or top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
Success Tips
To ensure your Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake turns out perfectly, follow these tips:
- Measure Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your milk and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t Stir the Water: When pouring the hot water over the topping, avoid stirring it. This allows the sauce to form beneath the cake as it bakes.
- Check for Doneness: The cake is done when the top is firm and the edges have slightly pulled away from the dish. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cake.
Storage
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to enjoy the warm, gooey texture again.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Servings: 9 servings
- Kcal: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Nutrition
Each serving of this decadent cake provides approximately 250 calories. While it’s a treat, enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use any type of milk, including non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
While the cake is best enjoyed warm, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Can I add any mix-ins to the cake batter?
Yes, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter to the cake batter for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use a different size baking dish?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch or 10×10-inch baking dish. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as a smaller dish may require a longer baking time and a larger dish may require less time.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s best to enjoy this cake fresh, you can freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
The Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the comfort of a classic chocolate cake with the indulgence of a rich, fudgy sauce. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!