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## **Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Classic Chocolate Pudding Cake**
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to get baking. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a **Classic Chocolate Pudding Cake** that will wow your friends and family.
### **Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup hot water
### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. This will ensure the cake bakes evenly and consistently.
#### **2. Mix the Dry Ingredients**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **sugar**, **cocoa powder**, **baking powder**, and **salt**. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
#### **3. Add the Wet Ingredients**
Next, add the **milk**, **melted butter**, and **vanilla extract** to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until the batter is smooth and well combined. The batter will be thick, which is perfect for creating the self-saucing effect later on.
#### **4. Pour the Batter into a Baking Dish**
Transfer the batter to a greased **8×8-inch baking dish** or an equivalent-sized dish. Spread the batter evenly in the dish using a spatula.
#### **5. Add the Hot Water**
Once the batter is evenly spread in the baking dish, pour the **hot water** over the top. Do not stir the water into the batter. This will create the chocolate sauce at the bottom of the dish while the cake rises to the top during baking.
#### **6. Bake the Cake**
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for **30 to 35 minutes**. The cake is done when the top is set and slightly cracked, but the center should still be soft and gooey. A toothpick inserted into the cake portion should come out clean, but it’s okay if there is some sticky sauce on it — this is what gives the pudding cake its signature texture.
#### **7. Cool and Serve**
Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. The dessert is best enjoyed warm, with the cake’s soft top and gooey chocolate sauce. Serve it on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
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## **Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pudding Cake**
– **Use the Right Baking Dish:** The size of your baking dish is important. If your dish is too large, the cake may spread out too thin, affecting the texture. An 8×8-inch dish works best for this recipe, but you can also use a slightly larger dish if needed.
– **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** While you want to ensure the ingredients are well combined, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture instead of a light, airy cake.
– **Serve Immediately:** Chocolate Pudding Cake is best served warm, right after it’s been baked. As it sits, the sauce will start to thicken, so enjoy it while it’s still soft and gooey.
– **Customize with Add-ins:** For a fun twist, consider adding **chocolate chips**, **chopped nuts**, or **marshmallows** to the batter before baking. These ingredients will melt into the sauce, adding texture and flavor.
– **Storage:** If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a little extra water to the sauce if it has thickened too much.
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## **Conclusion**
The **Classic Chocolate Pudding Cake** is a dessert that combines the best of both worlds: a rich, gooey chocolate pudding and a soft, spongy cake, all in one dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dessert is the perfect treat for any occasion — from a cozy family dinner to a dinner party with friends. The self-saucing nature of the cake makes it a unique and delightful experience, as the warm chocolate sauce forms underneath the cake as it bakes, creating a luxurious texture.
This recipe is versatile, too, allowing you
to customize it with different add-ins or toppings to suit your personal preferences. Whether served with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or enjoyed on its own, the **Classic Chocolate Pudding Cake** will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in one of the most comforting and satisfying desserts that never goes out of style. Enjoy every bite!
