Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar oven-safe dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Fold in chopped nuts if using.

Step 3: Transfer Batter to Dish

Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Fudge Topping

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cocoa powder.

Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter.

Carefully pour the hot water over the top without stirring. This will form the pudding sauce underneath as the cake bakes.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the cake is set on top and the fudge sauce is bubbling underneath.

Step 6: Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.

Best enjoyed warm, with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top.