If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of fluffy cake and luscious, molten chocolate sauce baked right beneath the surface, creating a magical self-saucing treat that never fails to impress. With simple pantry ingredients coming together to form a seriously comforting and indulgent chocolate dessert, this pudding cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that promises pure delight in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s building the tender cake base or creating that dreamy hot fudge layer beneath.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the soft, airy base of the cake, providing structure without heaviness.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness while helping develop a tender crumb.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake a rich chocolate flavor and deep color.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for lightness and a perfect rise in the cake.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and chocolate notes.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, contributing to the soft cake texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Brings a lovely buttery richness that elevates the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, complementing the chocolate perfectly.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Creates the caramel-like hot fudge sauce beneath the cake.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Mixed with brown sugar for that intense fudgy layer.
- 1 1/2 cups hot water: Poured on top to magically create the pudding sauce as it bakes.
How to Make Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until everything is well combined. This dry mix lays the foundation for your cake with the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate intensity.
Step 2: Add the Milk and Flavorings
Next, stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix gently until the batter is smooth and uniform. This step brings moisture and richness, ensuring your cake has that tender crumb everyone loves.
Step 3: Spread the Batter in the Pan
Pour the batter evenly into an ungreased 8-inch square baking dish. The ungreased surface is important because it helps the pudding sauce form beneath the cake as it bakes — magic in action!
Step 4: Sprinkle the Brown Sugar and Cocoa Topping
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and remaining 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter. This layer will melt and mingle with the hot water to create the signature fudgy sauce.
Step 5: Pour the Hot Water and Bake
Carefully pour the hot water over the back of a spoon onto the cake, making sure to cover it evenly without stirring. This technique keeps the layers separated and allows the pudding sauce to form underneath. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top looks set but the bottom remains gooey and indulgent.
Step 6: Let it Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes. This resting time lets the pudding sauce thicken slightly. Serve warm for the best experience, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to contrast the warm, gooey chocolate.
How to Serve Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is classic, balancing the rich chocolate fudge with creamy coolness. If you want to add texture, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts or fresh raspberries on top for a bright, crunchy contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few chocolate shavings can elevate the presentation beautifully too.
Side Dishes
This cake shines all on its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a tart cherry compote adds a refreshing pop that cuts through the richness. A small glass of cold milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee also complements the deep chocolate flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe in individual ramekins, turning it into personal molten cakes that feel extra special. Alternatively, drizzle caramel sauce or a hint of espresso syrup over the top for a gourmet touch that will wow your friends at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pudding sauce tends to thicken when chilled, so it might feel a bit denser but remains delicious for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze the Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual portions gently in the microwave until heated through, about 30 to 60 seconds depending on your microwave’s power. Reheating revives the gooey pudding sauce, making every bite taste fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat or even plant-based milk if you prefer, but whole milk lends the richest flavor and texture to the cake.
Why shouldn’t I stir after pouring the hot water?
Stirring would mix the layers and prevent the pudding sauce from forming underneath. Pouring the water over the back of a spoon keeps the batter on top and lets the fudgy sauce develop underneath.
Is this cake gluten-free?
This recipe is made with all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as is. You can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture might vary.
Can I use dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor?
Absolutely! Using dark cocoa powder will intensify the chocolate taste, making your Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe even more decadent.
How long should I wait before serving?
Allowing the cake to cool for about 15 minutes makes it safer and more enjoyable to eat since the pudding thickens slightly, giving the perfect warm, gooey texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting joy of homemade Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe to warm your soul and satisfy your chocolate cravings. With its delightful layers of fluffy cake and rich gooey fudge sauce, this dessert brings smiles to every occasion. I truly hope you give it a try and find as much happiness in every spoonful as I do sharing it with my favorite people.
Print
Hot Fudge Pudding Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is a delightful self-saucing dessert that combines a moist chocolate cake layer with a rich, fudgy sauce that forms during baking. Perfect for chocolate lovers, it’s easy to make and serves warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dry Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture until the batter is smooth and fully integrated.
- Assemble Cake Batter: Spread the batter evenly into an ungreased 8-inch square baking dish, ensuring a smooth and even layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the baking dish.
- Add Hot Water: Carefully pour the hot water over the top of the batter and sugar mixture without stirring to preserve the layering effect that creates the pudding sauce.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is set and cake-like but the bottom remains gooey.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for 15 minutes so the fudgy sauce sets. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Notes
- Do not stir after adding the hot water to allow the pudding sauce to form beneath the cake layer.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder instead of regular unsweetened cocoa powder.
- This dessert is best served warm to enjoy the gooey fudgy sauce.
- Use an 8-inch square baking dish for optimal cake thickness and baking time.
