Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
This Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines a rich, gooey chocolate cake with a luscious fudge sauce. Perfect for any celebration or a cozy night in, this self-saucing cake is sure to impress. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Gooey: The built-in fudge sauce makes every bite decadent and mouthwatering.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Chocolate lovers will be delighted by the rich flavors and satisfying texture.
- Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients on hand, making this a convenient choice.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Hot Fudge Pudding Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Mixing bowls (small and large)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Whisk: Helps to mix wet and dry ingredients evenly, ensuring a fluffy cake texture.
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
Ingredients
This Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is a rich and gooey chocolate dessert with a built-in fudge sauce. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!
For the Cake Batter
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (divided)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
For the Sauce
- 1 cup boiling water
How to Make Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8-inch square baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Cocoa Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup sugar and ¼ cup cocoa powder. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining ½ cup sugar, remaining ¼ cup cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips; note that the batter will be thick.
Step 6: Spread Batter in Pan
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved cocoa and sugar mixture evenly over the top.
Step 7: Add Boiling Water
Gently pour the boiling water over the batter without stirring. This will help create the fudge sauce under the cake as it bakes.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for about 22-24 minutes or until the top is cracked, sauce is bubbling, and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out mostly clean.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Let your cake cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience!
How to Serve Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, serving suggestions can elevate this warm chocolate treat.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Combining the warm cake with creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Top with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the chocolate experience.
Drizzle with Extra Hot Fudge Sauce
- For true chocolate lovers, drizzling more hot fudge sauce over the top amplifies the indulgence.
Add Fresh Berries
- Adding raspberries or strawberries provides a fresh touch that balances out the richness of the cake.
Serve in Individual Portions
- For an elegant presentation, serve the cake in small ramekins topped with ice cream and mint leaves.
Garnish with Chocolate Shavings
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for an appealing look that complements the cake’s flavor.
How to Perfect Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
To ensure your Hot Fudge Pudding Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and baking powder can make a significant difference in texture and rise.
- Measure accurately: Precision in measuring your ingredients helps maintain balance in sweetness and texture.
- Don’t skip the boiling water: Pouring boiling water over the batter creates that gooey fudge layer, so it’s essential not to skip this step.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cake towards the end of baking; it should be cracked on top but still moist inside.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes enhances its flavor and makes it easier to serve.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different sauces or fruits as toppings for added flair and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
While Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is delicious on its own, pairing it with certain side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich dessert.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the chocolate theme while adding an elegant touch.
- Nutty Granola: Serve a small bowl of granola on the side for a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft pudding cake.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce alongside your cake offers another layer of sweetness that complements chocolate beautifully.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of chocolate, making it a perfect drink pairing.
- Cheese Platter: Offering a variety of cheeses can provide a savory balance to sweet desserts, enhancing complexity in flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hot Fudge Pudding Cake, some common mistakes can ruin this delicious dessert. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
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Skipping the Preheating Step: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always make sure your oven is at the correct temperature before placing your cake inside.
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Overmixing the Batter: If you mix the batter too much, it can become tough. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
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Ignoring the Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water over the batter is crucial for creating the fudge sauce. Don’t skip this step, as it’s essential for that gooey goodness.
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Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Expired baking powder or old cocoa powder can affect your cake’s rise and flavor. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before baking.
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Serving Cold: Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is best served warm. Allow it to cool slightly before serving with ice cream for a heavenly experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
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Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cake in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
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Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat slices for 20-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
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Stovetop: In a small pan over low heat, add a splash of milk and gently reheat slices while stirring until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hot Fudge Pudding Cake?
Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is a rich chocolate dessert that creates its own fudge sauce while baking. It’s known for its gooey texture and delightful flavor.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
You can experiment with dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different chocolates may alter the sweetness level of your cake.
How do I make Hot Fudge Pudding Cake gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I add nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a great crunch and flavor to your Hot Fudge Pudding Cake. Simply fold them into the batter before baking.
Final Thoughts
Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Its warm, gooey center paired with vanilla ice cream makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with different chocolates or toppings like whipped cream or berries. Try this fantastic recipe today and indulge in its chocolaty goodness!
Hot Fudge Pudding Cake
- Total Time: 39 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Hot Fudge Pudding Cake, a rich and gooey chocolate delight that promises to satisfy any sweet tooth. This self-saucing cake is incredibly easy to make, combining simple ingredients to create a decadent experience. As it bakes, the batter transforms into a luscious fudge sauce underneath a soft chocolate cake layer, making every bite an unforgettable treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect contrast of temperature and flavor. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress friends and family alike!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray an 8-inch square baking pan with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup sugar and ¼ cup cocoa powder; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, remaining cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt; whisk until well mixed.
- In another bowl, mix milk, melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined; gently fold in chocolate chips.
- Spread the thick batter evenly in the prepared pan and sprinkle with the reserved cocoa mixture.
- Carefully pour boiling water over the batter without stirring.
- Bake for about 22-24 minutes until the top is cracked and sauce is bubbling.
- Cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving warm with ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
