Print

Hot Fudge Sundae Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Hot Fudge Sundae Cake is a classic self-saucing chocolate dessert that creates its own rich fudge sauce as it bakes. It’s warm, gooey, and perfect served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup + 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (divided)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups boiling water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth and thick but pourable.
  4. Spread the batter evenly in a greased 8-inch baking dish.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and remaining 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Do not stir.
  6. Carefully pour boiling water over the top of the batter to cover completely. Do not mix.
  7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top looks set and the sauce bubbles beneath.
  8. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the fudge sauce to thicken.
  9. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
  • Don’t overbake — the center should remain soft and fudgy.
  • This recipe is naturally egg-free and can be made dairy-free with substitutes.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Nutrition