Chocolate self-saucing pudding
Chocolate self-saucing pudding is a warm, indulgent dessert featuring a tender cake layer that magically forms a rich, gooey chocolate sauce underneath as it bakes. Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients, it offers a comforting, chocolatey treat perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Can be made Gluten Free with substitutions
For the Cake Layer
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For the Sauce
- Prepare your ingredients and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter an ovenproof dish. Gather and measure all your ingredients before starting to mix to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder until evenly combined and smooth. This ensures an even rise and consistent flavor throughout the cake topping.
- Add wet ingredients to the dry mix: Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract if using. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. It will be slightly thick yet pourable.
- Transfer and prepare the sauce: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Carefully pour the boiling water over the batter. This unusual step creates the magical self-saucing effect during baking.
- Bake the pudding: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The top will set into a cakey layer while the liquid underneath transforms into a rich, bubbling chocolate sauce.
- Cool slightly and serve: After baking, let the pudding rest for a few minutes to help it settle and make serving easier. Spoon generous portions to enjoy both the sponge and the sauce together.
Notes
- Use good-quality cocoa powder to enhance the depth of chocolate flavor and color.
- Do not skip pouring boiling water over the batter, as this is essential to forming the luscious sauce beneath the cake.
- Choose an ovenproof ceramic or glass dish for even heat distribution and moisture retention.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake layer tender and fluffy.
- Allow the pudding to rest a few minutes after baking so the chocolate sauce thickens perfectly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: chocolate pudding, self-saucing pudding, easy chocolate dessert, warm chocolate cake, comfort food dessert