Name: Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485587H47M18S
Total time: PT-485587H47M18S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for topping); 1 1/4 cups hot water (very hot, not boiling)

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This Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that looks like a simple chocolate cake on top but reveals a rich, molten fudge sauce underneath. It’s a comforting treat that combines the best of cakey and gooey textures with an easy-to-make recipe.

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

Ingredients

Cake Layer:

1 cup all-purpose flour

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup milk

⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping Layer:

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 ¼ cups hot water (very hot, not boiling)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cocoa powder for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Do not stir.

Slowly pour the hot water over the top — really slowly! Again, do not stir.

Bake for 35–40 minutes. The top will look like cake, but underneath is a molten fudge sauce.

Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Preparation takes around 10 minutes, and baking time is 35 to 40 minutes. Cooling time is about 10–15 minutes before enjoying.

Variations

For a richer chocolate flavor, I sometimes add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter.

You can swap milk for almond milk or oat milk to make it dairy-free, but I keep the butter or use a vegan alternative.

Adding a pinch of instant coffee powder to the cake batter intensifies the chocolate taste without overpowering it.

To make it more festive, I sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top before baking.

I’ve even tried adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the batter for an adult twist.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer warming individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds to bring back that gooey texture. If the sauce looks a bit thick, a splash of milk or cream before reheating helps restore the molten quality.

FAQs

Can I make this pudding cake ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it a few hours before serving and let it cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Brown sugar is essential for the topping to get that deep caramel flavor, but you can substitute granulated sugar in the cake batter if needed.

What size baking dish should I use?

An 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish works perfectly to get the right thickness and fudgy consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness around 45 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but I’ve had good results substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

This Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is one of those desserts that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make. I love how it delivers a cozy, chocolaty experience with minimal effort, and it’s always a hit whenever I share it. Whether it’s a casual weeknight treat or a dessert for guests, this cake brings warmth and joy in every spoonful.

Recipe:

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert featuring a cakey chocolate top with a rich, molten fudge sauce underneath, perfect for a comforting and indulgent treat.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking dish.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cocoa powder for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Do not stir.
Slowly pour the hot water over the top — really slowly! Do not stir.
Bake for 35–40 minutes. The top will look like cake, but underneath is a molten fudge sauce.
Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.