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Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
Hot fudge sundae cake combines gooey fudge sauce with moist chocolate cake for a dessert everyone loves. Serve it warm with ice cream for the ultimate treat!
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Hot fudge sundae cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers! With rich, gooey fudge and a moist cake base, every bite is irresistible. This decadent treat bakes to perfection, creating its own hot fudge sauce. It's perfect for parties, potlucks, or just satisfying your sweet tooth at home!
This recipe is super easy to make when you follow the guide below. You'll find step-by-step photos and directions to help you every step of the way. We’ve included pro tips and tricks to ensure your cake turns out perfectly. Plus, we answer the most frequently asked questions to make your baking experience stress-free!
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Everyone loves a classic hot fudge sundae, but getting one usually means going out to a special spot. Unlike a chocolate cake you can grab at the store or whip up from a box mix, this recipe lets you enjoy the best of both worlds—hot fudge sundae and cake—right at home, anytime you want!
Ingredients for Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
What you'll need to make this homemade Hot Fudge Cake:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of cocoa powder, divided in half
- ¾ cup of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ cup of whole milk
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup of packed light brown sugar
- 1¾ cups of hot water
Substitutions and Additions
Swap ingredients or add tasty extras to make your fudge cake uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free twist on your hot fudge sundae cake.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
- Add Peanut Butter: Swirl in a few tablespoons of peanut butter for an irresistible chocolate and peanut butter combination.
- Top with Marshmallows: Add mini marshmallows to the top before baking for a gooey, s’mores-inspired variation.
These easy ingredient swaps and additions will take your dessert to the next level!
How to Make Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
Follow our step-by-step instructions and pictures to make this easy hot fudge cake perfectly every time. Check out the tips and tricks below for extra help and great results.
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
SECOND STEP: In an 8 x 8 glass baking dish, mix together the flour, ¼ cup cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and baking powder.
THIRD STEP: Mix in the milk, butter, and vanilla extract until a thick batter forms.
FOURTH STEP: Stir in the chocolate chips and spread the batter evenly in the baking dish.
FIFTH STEP: Combine the remaining ¼ cup of cocoa powder and brown sugar and sprinkle it over the batter.
SIXTH STEP: Pour hot water over the top of all of the ingredients.
Pro Tip
Do not mix the hot water into the batter.
SEVENTH STEP: Bake for 40 minutes or until the cake has formed a dry top and a bubbly, pudding-like bottom.
Pro Tip
The cake is supposed to have a pudding-like bottom, so don’t worry if the bottom of your cake is not a cake-like texture when it is finished baking.
EIGHTH STEP: Remove the cake from the oven.
NINTH STEP: Serve the warm cake with a scoop of ice cream, if desired. Top with whipped cream, hot fudge topping, and a cherry!
How To Serve Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
This hot fudge sundae cake is perfect for all kinds of occasions! Both kids and adults love its rich, gooey goodness. Enjoy it at parties or treat your family to a dessert everyone will devour!
- Perfect for Birthday Parties: Chocolate hot fudge cake is a crowd-pleaser for birthdays with its gooey chocolate layers and fun, indulgent flavors. Add scoops of cookie dough ice cream and toppings like sprinkles or caramel sauce for extra excitement. Pair it with chocolate chip cookies or brownie bites for a sweet dessert table.
- Cozy Winter Treat: Serve this warm dessert during chilly winter nights or holiday celebrations. The rich, fudgy flavor feels perfect for the season. Pair it with hot cocoa or a festive drink like spiced apple cider for extra comfort.
- Ideal for Potlucks or Family Gatherings: This dessert shines at potlucks or family dinners where everyone loves a chocolaty treat. The self-saucing fudge layer makes it extra special. Pair it with a fruit trifle or mini cheesecakes for a variety of sweet options.
Why You'll Love This Recipe for Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
You'll enjoy this easy recipe for hot fudge cake for so many sweet reasons. Try it and see for yourself!
Effortless to Make and Always Impressive: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can whip up this impressive dessert. Its rich flavor and gooey texture make it unforgettable, earning it a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
A Dreamy Chocolate Delight: This recipe combines moist chocolate cake with a rich, gooey fudge sauce that forms as it bakes. The result is an indulgent treat that satisfies every chocolate craving in the most delightful way. Each bite feels like a warm hug of sweetness.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, family dinner, or cozy movie night, this dessert fits right in. Its versatility makes it a go-to recipe for readers who want something easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.
Recipe FAQ
What makes hot fudge sundae cake so unique?
This cake creates its own gooey fudge sauce while baking, making every bite rich and indulgent without extra effort.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The top should look set, and the edges should pull slightly away from the pan. Avoid over baking for gooey results.
Can I use a different pan size for this recipe?
You can use a slightly smaller or larger pan, but adjust the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Why does the batter look so thin before baking?
The thin batter is essential for the magic fudge sauce to form. Trust the process—it bakes into perfection!
Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve hot fudge sundae cake at a gathering?
Scoop portions into small bowls and top with ice cream for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert everyone will love.
Should I serve hot fudge sundae cake warm or cold?
This cake tastes best served warm. The gooey fudge sauce pairs perfectly with a cold scoop of ice cream.
How should I garnish hot fudge sundae cake for extra flair?
Add whipped cream, a cherry, and chocolate shavings to each serving for a fun, sundae-inspired presentation.
Can I make individual servings of hot fudge sundae cake?
Yes! Bake the batter in ramekins for personal-sized desserts. This makes serving easier and adds a special touch.
Storage FAQ
Make this tasty chocolate cake and keep it fresh by storing it in the fridge or freezer. Here’s how!
Can I make hot fudge sundae cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the cake a day in advance. Store it covered in the pan, and reheat portions when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to store leftover hot fudge sundae cake?
Cover the cake tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Leftovers will stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze hot fudge sundae cake?
Freeze this rich chocolate cake without the ice cream or toppings for later. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Keep it frozen for up to three months, and thaw it fully before serving. Reheat and add toppings, or enjoy it cold as is!
How should I reheat hot fudge sundae cake?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for twenty to thirty seconds, or until warmed through. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Hot Fudge Sundae Cake
Hot fudge sundae cake combines gooey fudge sauce with moist chocolate cake for a dessert everyone loves. Serve it warm with ice cream for the ultimate treat!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder (divided in half)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1¾ cups hot water
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In an 8 x 8 glass baking dish, mix together the flour, ¼ cup cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and baking powder.
- Mix in the milk, butter, and vanilla extract until a thick batter forms.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and spread the batter evenly in the baking dish.
- Combine the remaining ¼ cup of cocoa powder and brown sugar and sprinkle over the batter.
- Pour hot water over the top of all ingredients.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until the cake has formed a dry top and a bubbly, pudding-like bottom.
- Remove the cake from the oven.
- Serve warm cake with ice cream if desired. Top with whipped cream and a cherry!
Notes
- Do not mix the hot water into the batter.
- The cake is supposed to have a pudding-like bottom so don’t worry if the bottom of your cake does not have a cake-like texture when it is finished baking.
Nutrition
Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 38mg | Potassium: 289mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 45g | Vitamin A: 105IU | Calcium: 92mg | Iron: 2mg
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Comments
nicole foster says
how wet should the bottom be? was fantastic but the bottom was more like not quiet set pudding but still delish. the top was set and perfect! best storage ideas? cause Im not getting it all out of the pan with such a wet gooey bottom lol
Amy T says
The bottom should be a bit like a set pudding. Sorry you're having trouble with storage! Maybe just wrap the pan with plastic wrap and try to find room in your fridge! I'm glad you enjoyed the cake!
Wendy Kielsmeier says
I have made the Betty Crocker version of this for years, but it doesn’t have the Chocolate chips added. I think the chocolate chips gives it an even better taste. Thank you for sharing this recipe. It’s wonderful!
Melinda Robinson says
I’ve made this numerous times and it’s delicious, and very easy!! 😋😋
LISA PEARCY says
Great cake
Rita says
Thank you for this recipe! I used almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and Splenda instead of sugar and it still turned out perfect. We ate it warm with vanilla ice cream! Yummy!
Billie says
Looks yummy
Brenda says
Could you add some cornstarch to make the sauce thicker?
Yessi says
Yes, you can add cornstarch to make thicker.
Kathy says
Opps, realized I don't have a 8" glass pan. Can I use a my 9/13 & double the recipe? Also can I replace the water for coffee?
Shauna says
Yes, you should be able to double the recipe and use a 9x13. Since it's a different amount, just watch the cook time and make sure it's done. You may need to add a few minutes of cook time. As far as substituting coffee for water, that should be totally fine! It's still a clear liquid so it should work just the same!
Shari says
OMG.....made this tonight. So good! Super easy & so chocolate-gooey. 💜
Erica says
Omg...i can't wait to try this too
Grandyma2 says
I’ve been making this recipe for many years and always a hit.