A rich, gooey chocolate cake that transforms into a warm, molten pudding when baked. Perfect with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Gooey chocolate fudge sauce forms naturally under the cake
- Quick to assemble, only one bowl for the batter
- Perfect for dessert lovers and chocolate fanatics
- Can be made with or without nuts for added crunch
INGREDIENTS
Cake Batter:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Fudge Topping:
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 3/4 cup hot water
INSTRUCTIONS
1. PREPARE THE OVEN & PAN
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar oven-safe pan.
2. MAKE THE CAKE BATTER
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and free of lumps.
Fold in chopped nuts if using.
3. TRANSFER BATTER TO PAN
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. ADD THE FUDGE TOPPING
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and additional cocoa powder. Sprinkle evenly over the cake batter.
5. POUR HOT WATER
Carefully pour the hot water over the top of the cake. Do not stir! During baking, the water will sink to the bottom, creating a rich fudge sauce.
6. BAKE THE CAKE
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the cake rises and the top is set while the fudge sauce bubbles underneath.
7. SERVE & ENJOY
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Delicious when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
SERVING & TIPS
- Serves: 6–8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Tips:
- Use hot water to ensure the fudge sauce forms properly
- Chilling slightly before serving helps clean slices
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking