Hot Fudge Cake Recipe

he Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake represents a miraculous dessert that combines the richness of hot fudge with the fluffy texture of cake, all in one irresistible dish. This dessert is a marvel of culinary simplicity and genius, creating its own thick fudge sauce during the baking process. Below is a detailed guide to creating this delightful treat, perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup white sugar
• 6 tablespoons cocoa powder, divided
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1 ¾ cups boiling water

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square cake pan to ensure that your cake can be easily removed after baking. This step is crucial for the perfect presentation of your hot fudge cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¾ cup of white sugar, and 4 tablespoons of the cocoa powder. This combination of dry ingredients forms the base of your cake, ensuring it rises beautifully and tastes rich.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To the dry mixture, add ½ cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir these ingredients until you achieve a smooth batter. The addition of vanilla extract and butter will introduce a depth of flavor and moisture to the cake.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Pan

Pour the batter into the greased cake pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. This creates a uniform layer that will cook consistently.

Step 5: Create the Fudge Layer

In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of light brown sugar with the remaining 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Sprinkle this sweet mixture evenly over the batter. This layer will interact with the boiling water to form the fudge sauce.

Step 6: Add Boiling Water

Carefully pour 1 ¾ cups of boiling water over the cocoa and brown sugar layer. Do not stir; the water will penetrate the cake and sugar layers to create the fudge sauce during baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center of the cake is set. This cooking time allows the cake to bake thoroughly while forming a rich sauce beneath it.

Step 8: Cooling

Allow the cake to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This rest period helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes the cake easier to serve.

 

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this hot fudge chocolate pudding cake warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The contrast between the warm, gooey cake and the cold ice cream is truly divine.

Tips:

• Ensure the boiling water is evenly poured over the sugar-cocoa layer for a consistent fudge sauce.
• Resist the temptation to stir the boiling water into the batter; the layers need to remain separate before baking.

The Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a testament to the joy of baking, where simplicity meets indulgence. This recipe not only provides a deliciously warm and gooey dessert but also showcases the magic of oven alchemy, where a layer of rich fudge sauce forms magically under a layer of moist chocolate cake. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this cake promises a rewarding experience and a delightful treat that's sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!