Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, making sure to coat the sides and bottom.

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

3. **Add Wet Ingredients**: To the dry ingredients, add 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined. The batter will be thick, which is exactly what you want for the base of this dessert.

4. **Add the Boiling Water**: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Now, here’s the trick – pour 1/2 cup of boiling water over the batter. This step might seem odd, but it’s what creates the magical gooey fudge sauce at the bottom of the cake.

5. **Prepare the Fudge Topping**: In a separate small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and a pinch of sea salt (if using). Sprinkle this dry mixture evenly over the top of the batter in the baking dish.

6. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top looks set and slightly cracked, but the center remains soft and pudding-like. Don’t worry if the center is a little wobbly — that’s the fudge sauce!

7. **Serve**: Remove the pudding cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. When you dig in, you’ll reveal a warm, fudgy sauce underneath the cake layer.

### **Serving Suggestions:**

– **Vanilla Ice Cream**: The contrast between the warm, fudgy cake and cold vanilla ice cream is heavenly. A scoop of ice cream on top of the hot pudding cake makes for the perfect combination.
– **Whipped Cream**: A dollop of whipped cream will add a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the cake.
– **Fresh Berries**: For a touch of freshness, serve with raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake.
– **Chocolate Shavings**: If you’re a true chocolate lover, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or chunks on top for added texture and indulgence.

### **Why This Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion**

– **Quick and Easy**: Whether it’s a last-minute craving or a planned dessert, Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake comes together quickly and requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect go-to when you need a chocolate fix.
– **No Need for Special Equipment**: No fancy gadgets or mixers are needed. Everything is mixed by hand in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
– **Crowd-Pleaser**: If you’re hosting a party or a family gathering, this dessert will be a hit. Its warm, gooey nature makes it comforting and inviting for everyone.
– **Versatile**: You can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. Want it extra rich? Add more cocoa powder. Looking for a lighter version? You can try using lower-fat milk and butter substitutes.

### **Tips for the Best Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake**

– **Don’t Overmix**: When preparing the batter, be sure not to overmix. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender cake texture.
– **Check the Consistency**: The cake should have a soft, pudding-like center once baked. If the top is too firm, give it a few extra minutes, but keep in mind that it should still have a gooey center.
– **Serve Warm**: This cake is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, so it retains that gooey fudge center. If you have leftovers, gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to revive the molten center.

### **Conclusion:**

Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is the dessert dreamers are made of. With its warm, fudgy center and cake-like texture on top, it delivers a rich chocolate experience like no other. It’s simple to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re treating yourself or serving it to guests, this dessert will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent, skip the store-bought options and make this homemade Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake. The combination of warm cake and gooey fudge sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds!