Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake

If you’re searching for a dessert that combines simplicity and indulgence, look no further than this Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake. With its gooey chocolate center and light, fluffy cake layer, it’s a dessert that satisfies every chocolate lover’s craving. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose or cake flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, divided
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 cups hot water
• Optional toppings: cherry pie filling, vanilla ice cream

Directions

tep 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F and prepare a 2-quart baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In the baking dish, combine the flour, salt, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, baking powder, and ½ cup of granulated sugar.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Add the Topping
Combine the remaining 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, ½ cup granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.

Step 5: Pour the Hot Water
Gently pour the hot water over the batter without stirring.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is set and firm to the touch.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the warm pudding cake into individual dishes, ensuring you get the gooey chocolate sauce at the bottom. Top with cherry pie filling and vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve the cake warm to enjoy the gooey chocolate pudding layer at its best.
• Use a large spoon to scoop portions, ensuring each serving has both the cake and pudding.
• Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
• Add fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra decadence or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding layer may thicken slightly as it cools, but reheating will restore its gooey texture.
• Freezing: While the cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 20-30 seconds per serving. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to maintain the pudding’s creamy consistency.

These tips ensure your Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake stays delicious, whether you’re enjoying it fresh or as leftovers!

Variations

Customize your Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake with these delightful variations to suit your taste preferences or add a unique twist to the classic recipe.

1. Peanut Butter Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Swirl ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking.
• Sprinkle crushed peanuts or Reese’s pieces on top for a nutty crunch.

2. Mocha Fudge Pudding Cake

• Replace ½ cup of the hot water with freshly brewed coffee for a mocha flavor.
• Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a coffeehouse-inspired dessert.

3. Mint Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients.
• Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or Andes mints over the batter before baking.

4. Double Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolate goodness.
• Use chocolate milk instead of regular milk for an even richer flavor.

5. Caramel Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before adding the hot water.
• Top with caramel bits or toffee pieces for a decadent treat.

6. Nutty Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Mix ½ cup of chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts into the batter.
• Garnish with additional nuts for a crunchy topping.

7. Fruit-Filled Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Add a layer of sliced bananas or fresh raspberries to the bottom of the baking dish before pouring in the batter.
• Top with fruit preserves or fresh fruit after baking for a fruity twist.

8. Spiced Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Top with a dollop of spiced whipped cream for a seasonal touch.

9. Coconut Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Stir ½ cup of shredded coconut into the batter.
• Sprinkle additional coconut on top before baking for a tropical flair.

10. Gluten-Free Chocolate Pudding Cake

• Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Ensure other ingredients, like cocoa powder and baking powder, are gluten-free.

These variations make it easy to elevate the classic recipe and keep dessert exciting every time you make it!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! While this cake is best served warm, you can bake it ahead of time and reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, cake flour, or a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your flour substitution works well for cakes.

3. Why do I pour hot water over the batter?
The hot water activates the cocoa and sugar topping, creating the rich pudding layer beneath the cake as it bakes.

4. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar, but note that it may affect the sweetness and texture of both the cake and pudding layers.

5. Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
You can experiment with alternatives like coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

6. How do I know when the cake is done?
The top of the cake should be set and firm to the touch, while the pudding layer underneath remains gooey. A toothpick inserted into the cake layer should come out clean.

7. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk) and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil.

8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving.

9. Can I freeze Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave after thawing.

10. What toppings go well with this cake?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, cherry pie filling, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts all pair beautifully with this indulgent dessert.

These FAQs ensure your Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake turns out perfectly and addresses common concerns for a hassle-free baking experience!

This Chocolate Fudge Pudding Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. Its rich flavors and self-saucing magic make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch and savor every bite. Make this recipe today to experience a truly indulgent chocolate escape!

Print