Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake – Warm, Gooey & Made with Pantry Staples

The Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a miracle of a dessert: it separates into a moist chocolate cake on top and a rich, fudgy sauce underneath – all in one pan and with ingredients you likely already have at home. It’s a nostalgic, comforting treat that satisfies every chocolate craving without the need for frosting or complex techniques.

With its origins rooted in traditional American comfort food, this dessert has stood the test of time for its simplicity and pure indulgence. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner or showcasing it at a casual gathering, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp (10 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
• 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Fudge Sauce:

• 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 3/4 cups (420 ml) hot water

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking dish or equivalent.

2. Make the Cake Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add in milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

3. Prepare and Add the Fudge Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cocoa powder.
2. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cake batter.
3. Slowly pour the hot water over the top. Do not stir – this is crucial for creating the self-saucing effect.

4. Bake

1. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is set and a cake layer has formed.
2. A gooey pudding-like layer will form at the bottom.

5. Cool and Serve

1. Let cool for 5–10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
2. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.

This dessert shines when served warm, right out of the oven. Spoon generous portions into dessert bowls or ramekins, making sure to get both cake and sauce. A cold contrast like vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of crème fraîche complements the hot fudge perfectly.

For a special touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle extra chocolate sauce. Fresh berries also add a tangy contrast.

• Serve in individual bowls with ice cream for a dramatic molten effect.
• Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) to the batter for extra texture.
• Sprinkle with sea salt or espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.
• Layer leftovers into parfaits with cream and crumbled cookies.

• Boiling Water is Key: Use freshly boiled water to ensure the sauce forms properly.
• Don’t Stir Once Layered: Let the layers bake as poured; the chemistry does the magic.
• Coffee Enhancer: Replace up to half the hot water with strong brewed coffee for a mocha twist.
• Pan Size Matters: Stick to an 8×8 inch pan for ideal thickness and sauce-to-cake ratio.
• Make Ahead: You can mix the dry ingredients in advance and store them in a jar for quick prep later.

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add spoonfuls of peanut butter to the batter.
• Spiced Chocolate: Stir in cinnamon, cayenne, or nutmeg.
• Fruit Fusion: Fold in chopped bananas or raspberries before baking.
• Mint Chocolate: Add a drop or two of peppermint extract to the batter.

Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is one of those magical, old-school desserts that impresses with minimal effort. It’s rich, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether it’s a last-minute dessert for guests or a solo indulgence on a rainy day, it delivers warmth, gooeyness, and a generous dose of chocolate love.