Are you ready to treat yourself to a divine dessert experience? Look no further than our irresistible Gooey Chocolate Pudding Cake recipe! This delectable creation is the perfect marriage of rich, gooey chocolate and fluffy cake, all in one delightful bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this dessert is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering treat!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/4 cups very hot water
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish and set it aside.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Stir in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread the Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Make the Topping: In another bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake batter in the baking dish.
- Add Hot Water: Carefully pour the very hot water over the top of the cake batter and topping mixture. Do not stir.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly crispy.
- Serve Warm: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, scooping out portions of the gooey cake along with the pudding-like sauce.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Serve with Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve each portion of Gooey Chocolate Pudding Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Add Nuts: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the top of the cake before baking.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the cake by adding ingredients like espresso powder, cinnamon, or chili powder to the cocoa powder for a unique twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar-free sweetener to lower the carb count.
- Swap out the milk for unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to further reduce carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder if that’s what you have on hand. It will yield a slightly different flavor but will still result in a delicious dessert.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: While this cake is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can make it in advance and reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake? A: Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake the cake in a larger baking dish. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover portions of the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
In conclusion, our Gooey Chocolate Pudding Cake is a heavenly dessert that combines the best of both worlds: rich chocolate cake and gooey pudding. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect choice for any occasion, from weeknight indulgences to special celebrations. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or simply appreciate a decadent treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So why wait? Treat yourself to a slice of chocolatey bliss with our Gooey Chocolate Pudding Cake today!
