Ingredients:
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 3/4 cups hot water
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Fresh berries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
2- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3- Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth.
4- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
5- In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar and 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish.
6- Pour the hot water over the top, but do not stir.
7- Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are bubbling.
8- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the Hot Fudge Pudding Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with fresh berries, if desired.