Introduction
Grandma’s Hot Fudge Sundae Cake is a beloved classic that never fails to impress. This delightful dessert combines a rich chocolate cake with a gooey hot fudge sauce that magically forms as it bakes. Best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
125 g all-purpose flour
200 g granulated sugar (divided)
30 g unsweetened cocoa powder (divided)
1.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
120 ml milk
30 ml vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
100 g packed brown sugar
240 ml hot water
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Yield: 8 servings
This easy-to-make dessert is sure to become a family favorite, bringing smiles and sweet memories to your table. Enjoy every bite of this delicious hot fudge sundae cake!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and thoroughly. Grease your 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 100 g of granulated sugar, 15 g of cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly blended, releasing a fragrant chocolate aroma that will tease your taste buds.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir just until smooth, creating a thick, luscious batter that will serve as the foundation of your cake. Pour this batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Sprinkle Sugars and Cocoa
In a separate small bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar, the remaining 100 g of granulated sugar, and the remaining 15 g of cocoa powder. Sprinkle this sugary mixture evenly over the top of the batter, creating a delightful layer that will complement the chocolate flavor.
Step 5: Add Hot Water
Gently pour the 240 ml of hot water over the sugar and cocoa layer. Be careful not to stir; let the water seep through the layers. This step is crucial as it helps form the hot fudge sauce that will pool at the bottom during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The edges should be firm while the center remains slightly wobbly. The smell of chocolate will fill your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes. This brief cooling time enhances the gooeyness of the fudge. Scoop out portions of the warm cake, ensuring to include some of that rich fudge sauce with each serving. Pair it with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option. You can also use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version, and the vegetable oil can be swapped for melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert with toppings like chopped nuts, whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra chocolate sauce for an enhanced experience. Fresh berries can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave for a quick treat or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Serving Temperature
For the best experience, serve the cake warm, as it enhances the fudginess and allows the ice cream to melt slightly into the cake, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
Cook Techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Combine dry ingredients separately from wet ingredients to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures. Start with the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in one bowl, and mix the milk, oil, and vanilla extract in another.
Layering
When preparing the baking dish, layer the cake batter first, followed by the sugar-cocoa mixture, and finish with the hot water. This creates the unique fudge sauce that bakes at the bottom of the cake.
Baking
Bake the cake until the edges are firm and the center is almost set. This ensures that the dessert is gooey yet solid enough to serve.
Cooling
Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Serving
Serve the cake warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to complement the rich chocolate flavor and gooey fudge sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, but you can experiment with gluten-free options if needed. Just make sure to check for appropriate substitutions.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter or any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil.
Can I prep this cake in advance?
While this cake is best served fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time. Just mix and store them until you’re ready to add the wet ingredients and bake.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Hot Fudge Sundae Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a warm and comforting experience that combines a moist chocolate cake with a deliciously gooey fudge sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its rich flavors and delightful warmth. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
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