Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 cups boiling water

Instructions:

  1. Place the 1/2 cup unsalted butter in your baking dish and put it in the oven while it preheats to 350°F (180°C) until completely liquid and bubbling.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour, 1 cup sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
  3. Pour in 3/4 cup milk and 1 tsp vanilla extract into the flour mixture. Note: Stir just until the white streaks of flour disappear to keep the cake light.
  4. Remove the hot dish from the oven and pour the batter directly over the melted butter. Do not stir.
  5. In a separate small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup cocoa powder.
  6. Sprinkle the sugar cocoa mixture evenly over the top of the batter. Do not stir.
  7. Gently pour 1 1/2 cups boiling water over the entire surface. Note: Use the back of a spoon to break the stream of water so it doesn't create a deep hole in the batter.
  8. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 minutes until the center is set but still wobbles slightly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes. This is vital for the sauce to thicken into a velvety texture.