Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake is a rich, gooey, and indulgent dessert that creates its own warm fudge sauce while baking. This easy-to-make, one-pan dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. If you’re craving a warm, decadent treat, follow this homemade hot fudge pudding cake recipe for a truly satisfying dessert!
Ingredients Required
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Fudge Sauce Layer:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups hot water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Stir until well combined and a smooth batter forms.
- Spread the batter evenly into the greased baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Fudge Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cocoa powder.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish.
- Gently pour hot water over the top (do not stir) – this will create the fudge sauce while baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and firm.
- The cake will rise to the top, and a rich, gooey chocolate sauce will form underneath.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop warm portions into bowls.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Enjoy the warm cake with its gooey fudge sauce!

Tips for the Best Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake
- Do not stir the hot water into the batter – this helps create the self-saucing fudge layer.
- Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavour.
- Swap boiling coffee instead of hot water to enhance the chocolate richness.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or crushed nuts.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
This easy hot fudge chocolate pudding cake recipe is a dream come true for chocolate lovers! With a soft cake top and a rich fudge sauce underneath, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or weeknight indulgence. Try this homemade chocolate pudding cake today and enjoy a warm, comforting treat.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it. Happy baking!
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