Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Two textures in one dessert: A tender cake and a luscious hot fudge layer in a single dish.
- Easy to make: Requires just one baking dish and simple pantry staples.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a cozy family dessert.
- Customizable toppings: Add whipped cream, ice cream, or nuts for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
- 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
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Fudge Sauce:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups hot water
Directions
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared dish.
- Make the Fudge Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter in the dish.
- Carefully pour the hot water over the entire mixture without stirring.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top appears set and the edges are bubbling. The top will be cake-like, and the bottom will contain a rich layer of fudge.
- Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like ice cream or whipped cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add chocolate chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips into the batter for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Switch the flavor: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter for a mocha twist.
- Nutty addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to revive the gooey fudge layer.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh and warm. Reheat it gently to bring back the gooey texture.
2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch dish and adjust the baking time slightly.
3. Can I use a different sweetener?
You can substitute coconut sugar or another granulated sweetener, but the flavor and texture might vary.
4. How can I make it dairy-free?
Replace milk with almond, oat, or soy milk and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil.
5. Why don’t I stir the fudge sauce ingredients?
Not stirring allows the sauce to form beneath the cake as it bakes.
6. Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, omit the baking powder and salt if using self-rising flour.
7. Is this cake freezer-friendly?
It’s not ideal for freezing due to the fudge layer, but it can be stored in the fridge.
8. Can I add spices for flavor?
A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper can add a unique twist.
9. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
10. How do I know when it’s done?
The top should look set and cake-like, while the edges should bubble.
Conclusion
Hot Fudge Cake is the perfect dessert to satisfy chocolate cravings with its rich and gooey texture. It’s simple to make, versatile, and guaranteed to impress. Serve it warm with your favorite toppings, and watch as it becomes a family favorite!
Hot Fudge Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Indulge in the decadence of Hot Fudge Cake, a classic dessert that features a tender chocolate cake layer atop a luscious, gooey fudge sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this rich treat pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream, delighting chocolate lovers with its easy preparation and irresistible texture.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 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
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Fudge Sauce:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups hot water
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Spread batter evenly in the dish.
- Make the Fudge Sauce:
- Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder in a bowl. Sprinkle over the batter without mixing.
- Carefully pour hot water over the mixture without stirring.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and edges are bubbling.
- Serve:
- Cool for 10 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
- Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Avoid stirring the fudge sauce mixture for the perfect layered texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American