This Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. With its moist cake layer and gooey fudge sauce underneath, it’s a warm and comforting treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, this dessert delivers a rich and satisfying experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for an even more decadent delight.
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
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the 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 ingredients.
- Stir until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and cocoa powder.
- Evenly sprinkle this topping mixture over the cake batter.
Step 4: Add the Hot Water
- Carefully pour the hot water over the top of the cake batter and topping. Do not stir—the water will sink to the bottom and create the fudgy sauce layer as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is firm, and the edges have slightly pulled away from the dish. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Step 6: Let It Cool
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken and develop its rich texture.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop warm cake into bowls, making sure to include some of the luscious chocolate sauce from the bottom.
- Top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Success
- Hot Water: Use freshly boiled water for the topping to ensure the sauce forms properly.
- Avoid Stirring: Do not mix the water into the batter or topping. The separation is key to creating the rich sauce layer.
- Serving Warm: This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and warm for the ultimate gooey texture.
- Make Ahead: While best served immediately, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a warm, fudgy treat.
Variations
- Mocha Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a coffee-flavored kick.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the batter before baking for added texture.
- Mint Chocolate: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist.
- Extra Gooey: Stir 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for even more melted chocolate goodness.
- Caramel Infusion: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake after baking for a sweet contrast.
FAQ
Can I use a different baking dish size?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch dish. However, the cake may be thicker and might require slightly longer to bake. Avoid dishes that are too shallow, as the sauce may overflow.
How do I store leftovers?
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 restore the gooey texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Swap the milk for almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
Can I freeze this cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may not retain its texture after thawing. However, the cake is best enjoyed fresh.
What toppings pair well with this dessert?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar are all excellent choices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Comforting and Indulgent: Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a decadent chocolate fix.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors and toppings to suit any occasion.
- Impressive Yet Simple: A crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to prepare.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairing: A scoop of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm, fudgy sauce.
- Elegant Touch: Garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers for a dinner party presentation.
- Holiday Dessert: Add crushed candy canes or dust with cinnamon for a festive flair.

Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake
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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour into the prepared dish.
- Mix the brown sugar and cocoa powder, then sprinkle evenly over the batter.
- Carefully pour hot water over the topping. Do not stir.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is firm and edges pull away from the dish.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.