Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) square or round baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined to form a thick batter.
4. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, combine the chopped chocolate, sugar, and boiling water for the hot fudge sauce. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Carefully pour this sauce over the cake batter; do not stir.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes. The top will set into a cake-like layer while the bottom becomes a rich, molten chocolate pudding.
7. Let the cake cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Spoon portions directly from the dish to capture the hot fudge pudding underneath.
8. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, and optional chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent touch.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Cooling Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: About 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Difficulty: Easy

Variations & Substitutions

• Add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer, more intense cake.
• Stir in chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top before baking for extra texture.
• Make individual servings in ramekins for a personal molten pudding experience.

Serving Suggestions