This chocolate cake pudding is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds—a moist chocolate cake and a decadent pudding sauce. The batter bakes into a soft, chocolatey cake, while a brown sugar and cocoa mixture creates a luscious sauce underneath. Served warm with whipped cream or ice cream, this treat is a timeless favorite.
Chocolate Cake Pudding
Chocolate Cake Pudding FAQ
What is chocolate cake pudding?
Chocolate cake pudding is a dessert where a cake batter is baked with a liquid mixture, creating a sauce as it cooks. The cake rises to the top while the pudding forms at the bottom.
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes, while this recipe calls for a devil’s food cake mix, you can experiment with other chocolate cake mixes for a slightly different flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a warm, gooey texture.
Food History
Chocolate pudding cakes have been around for generations. Originating as a simple stovetop dessert, variations appeared in the early 20th century when home bakers started experimenting with self-saucing cakes. The concept of pouring hot liquid over a batter before baking became popular in the 1950s.
By combining the ease of cake mix with the comforting texture of pudding, recipes like this became household staples. They were often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners, where the warm, rich flavors made them a favorite.
Timeline
- 1700s – Early versions of chocolate puddings emerge in Europe.
- 1800s – Baked chocolate desserts become more common.
- 1930s-1950s – Self-saucing chocolate pudding cakes gain popularity in the U.S.
- Today – This dessert remains a classic for chocolate lovers.
Recipe Discussion
This recipe starts with a devil’s food cake mix, creating a rich chocolate base. Brown sugar and cocoa powder are mixed with boiling water to form a syrupy sauce. This mixture sinks to the bottom when poured over the cake batter, creating a pudding-like texture as the cake bakes.
Miniature marshmallows add a soft, melty sweetness, while chopped nuts bring a crunchy contrast. The result is a moist, chocolatey dessert with a warm sauce that pairs perfectly with whipped cream or ice cream.
Preparation Tips
- Use hot water to help dissolve the brown sugar and cocoa mixture evenly.
- Do not stir the liquid into the batter—it will create the pudding layer as it bakes.
- Test with a toothpick in the cake portion to check for doneness.
- Use a deep baking dish to prevent overflow while baking.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- 9×13 Baking Dish – Perfect for baking this pudding cake evenly.
- Mixing Bowls – Helps keep ingredients well combined.
- Whisk – Ensures the sauce mixture is smooth.
- Cooling Rack – Allows the cake to set properly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for added richness.
- Sprinkle with chocolate chips before baking for extra chocolate flavor.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple but elegant touch.
A Comforting Chocolate Dessert
Chocolate cake pudding is a warm, rich dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served at family gatherings or as a weeknight treat, this dish is sure to satisfy chocolate lovers. The combination of fluffy cake and smooth pudding makes every bite irresistible.
Chocolate Cake Pudding Recipe
Chocolate Cake Pudding
A classic chocolate cake pudding made with a devil’s food cake mix, brown sugar, and cocoa. As it bakes, a pudding-like sauce forms at the bottom, creating a rich and gooey texture. Best served warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup cocoa
- 2 cups water
- 12 marshmallows (large)
- 1 pkg. devils food cake mix
- ½ cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- In an oblong pan 13x9x2", mix brown sugar & cocoa.
- Stir in 2 cups water.
- Snip marshmallows into quarters & scatter over this mixture.
- Prepare cake mix according to package directions & spoon over the above mixture.
- Sprinkle nuts over top.
- Bake according to package directions of cake.
- Serve with cream or ice cream as topping.
Notes
Serves 15.