Hot Fudge Chocolate Pudding Cake

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute of choice)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup fat-free milk
• 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce (to replace butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 2 tbsp chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolatey goodness)

For the fudge sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)
• 1/2 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add wet ingredients: Stir in the milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
4. Pour into the dish: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Prepare the fudge sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar. Add hot water and stir until smooth. Pour the sauce evenly over the batter in the baking dish. Do not stir!
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake will rise on top, and the fudge sauce will form on the bottom.
7. Serve: Let the cake sit for a few minutes to cool before serving. You can top it with a dollop of fat-free whipped cream or a scoop of low-calorie vanilla ice cream if desired.