Rich, moist, and irresistibly indulgent, this Hot Chocolate Fudge Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream. Paired with warm silky fudge sauce and creamy vanilla ice cream, it creates a dessert experience that feels luxurious yet simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Fudge Cake
This cake is the perfect balance between deep cocoa flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. It’s ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or quiet evenings when you crave something warm and comforting. The homemade hot fudge sauce takes it to another level, creating a dessert that feels both nostalgic and elegant.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 38–42 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Tools Needed
- 8-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Wire cooling rack
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Heatproof bowl
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup boiling water
For the Hot Fudge Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or finely chopped dark chocolate (50–70% cocoa)
For Serving
- Vanilla ice cream (homemade or store-bought)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) or 160°C for fan/convection. Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add egg, milk, melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth with no dry streaks remaining.
- Slowly pour in the boiling water and whisk gently. The batter will be thin—this ensures a moist texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 38–42 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack, flip upright, and cool for another 10 minutes.
- To prepare the fudge sauce, heat the cream until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Cool for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Slice the cake, place each portion in a shallow bowl, top with vanilla ice cream, and spoon warm fudge sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix once combined to keep the cake tender.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, gently reheat with a splash of cream.
- For deeper flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate.
Flavor Variations and Additions
- Add espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth.
- Mix chocolate chunks into the batter for extra richness.
- Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon for subtle warmth.
- Top with toasted nuts for texture contrast.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Keep fudge sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds and gently warm the sauce before serving.
Approximate Nutrition per Serving
- Calories: 420–460 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Sugar: 38g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake a day in advance and prepare the sauce just before serving.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I substitute milk?
You may use almond or oat milk for a dairy-light option.
Why is the batter thin?
The boiling water creates a light, moist crumb and intensifies cocoa flavor.
Final Tip
Serve this Hot Chocolate Fudge Cake slightly warm. That gentle warmth melting into cold vanilla ice cream, with glossy fudge cascading over the edges, transforms a simple dessert into a moment worth savoring.
