What makes a Hot Fudge Sundae Cake different from brownies?

This cake creates its own hot fudge sauce while baking, giving it a pudding-like texture, unlike brownies which remain solid and chewy.

Can I use a boxed cake mix for this recipe?

Not ideally. Boxed mixes don’t form the self-saucing layer, which is the hallmark of this dessert. It’s best made from scratch.

Why does the sauce form under the cake?

The layering technique and boiling water cause the sugar and cocoa to sink during baking, creating the fudge sauce at the bottom.

Hot Fudge Sundae Cake – 5 Secrets to the Best Gooey Dessert

Hot Fudge Sundae Cake

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A rich, self-saucing Hot Fudge Sundae Cake that bakes into a moist chocolate cake with a thick, gooey fudge layer underneath. This easy one-pan dessert is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, best served warm with ice cream.

Author: gemma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (plus extra for topping)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/4 cups boiling water

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Add milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and spread batter evenly into the baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and remaining cocoa powder, then sprinkle over batter.
Carefully pour boiling water over the top of the mixture. Do not stir.
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top layer is set and the sauce bubbles underneath.
Cool for 10 minutes before serving warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Do not overbake; the cake should remain soft with a gooey center.
Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, richer flavor.
For a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of cocoa before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of cake)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 38g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 8mg

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/hot-fudge-sundae-cake-recipe/