If you’re searching for the ultimate easy chocolate dessert that’s rich, decadent, and surprisingly simple to make, this Hot Fudge Pudding Cake is your answer. It’s part cake, part molten fudge, and 100% comfort in every bite. Best of all? It creates its own hot fudge sauce while baking!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pudding Cake
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No frosting or filling needed—it makes its own fudge sauce!
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Perfect for chocolate lovers craving a warm dessert
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Simple pantry ingredients, no electric mixer required
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Budget-friendly and ready in under 35 minutes
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The ultimate cozy dessert for fall, winter, or Valentine’s Day
Ingredients Breakdown:
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Granulated Sugar (1 cup, divided) – Sweetens both the cake and the fudgy topping.
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (½ cup, divided) – Deep chocolate flavor for both batter and sauce.
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All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) – The base that gives the cake structure.
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Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
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Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances out the sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
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Milk (½ cup) – Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
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Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp, melted) – Adds depth and tenderness to the cake.
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Egg Yolk (1 large) – Contributes to the cake’s richness and texture.
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Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Adds warmth and enhances the chocolate notes.
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Semisweet Chocolate Chips (½ cup) – Little bursts of melted chocolate throughout the cake.
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Boiling Water (1 cup) – Crucial for forming the molten fudge sauce underneath the cake as it bakes.
Tips for Best Results
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Don’t skip the boiling water—it’s crucial for creating the sauce layer.
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Use good quality cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
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Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the richness.
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For extra indulgence, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top before baking.
Delicious Variations
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Mocha Twist: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the batter.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts.
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Salted Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of caramel and a pinch of flaky salt.
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Double Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for extra richness.
How to Serve & Store
Serving Ideas:
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Best served warm, straight from the oven
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Top with ice cream, caramel sauce, or even fresh raspberries
Storage:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days
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Reheat: Microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds to re-melt the fudge layer
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Freezing not recommended due to the sauce texture
Popular Questions
Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder?
Yes, but the flavor will be deeper and more intense. Adjust sugar slightly if needed.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and skip the egg yolk or replace it with a flax egg.
Can I bake this in ramekins for individual servings?
Absolutely! Divide batter between greased ramekins, reduce bake time to about 18–20 minutes