Chocolate Cake Bars with Chocolate Pudding Frosting
These Chocolate Cake Bars with Chocolate Pudding Frosting are rich, moist, and incredibly easy to make. The cake batter comes together in one bowl, while the smooth homemade chocolate pudding frosting is prepared on the stovetop in just a few minutes, making this a simple dessert that’s perfect for both everyday baking and special occasions.
Served straight from the baking pan and cut into squares, these chocolate cake bars are ideal for sharing with family, taking to potlucks, or preparing when you need a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, moist chocolate cake with a silky homemade pudding frosting.
- The cake batter comes together in one bowl.
- No complicated cake decorating required.
- Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
- Easy to slice into bars for serving.
While Testing This Recipe
While making these chocolate cake bars, these little tips gave me the best results:
- Don’t overmix the batter; whisk just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adding the hot water at the end creates a smooth batter and helps produce a moist cake.
- Allow the cake to cool before pouring on the pudding frosting so it sets evenly.
- Stir the pudding constantly while cooking to keep it smooth and lump-free.
- Chill the cake before slicing for clean, neat bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the pudding frosting to set completely.
Can I use store-bought pudding?
Homemade pudding gives the best flavor and texture, but store-bought pudding can be used if you’re short on time.
How should I store the cake?
Cover and refrigerate the cake for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze individual bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I decorate it differently?
Absolutely. Chocolate sprinkles, chopped nuts, chocolate curls, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce all make delicious toppings.
Chocolate Cake Bars with Chocolate Pudding Frosting
Ingredients
For The Cake
- 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon coffee granules
- Pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup cooking oil
- ½ cup hot water
For The Pudding
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoon corn starch
- 1 ¾ cup milk
Instructions
To Make The Cake
- Preheat oven to 350F/180C. Line a 9×13” pan with parchment paper. Keep aside.
- In a bowl add all the ingredients except the hot water, and whisk well until combined. Do not over mix, stop when the ingredients come together.
- Add the hot water and whisk until combined. Pour the batter into the baking pan and bake for 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of the cake comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer the cake to a cooling rack.
To Make The Pudding
- In a sauce pan, add all the ingredients and mix well. On medium heat, stir until the mixture is thick.
- Pour the hot pudding frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until the frosting is fully set before slicing into bars.
- Cut the cake into squares/bars when it is completely cool.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the batter; whisk just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adding the hot water at the end creates a smooth batter and helps produce a moist cake.
- Allow the cake to cool before pouring on the pudding frosting so it sets evenly.
- Stir the pudding constantly while cooking to keep it smooth and lump-free.
- Chill the cake before slicing for clean, neat bars.
Nutrition
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The choco pudding topping does make these bars extremely tempting, Muna.
They look so cute and delicious Muna , pinned!
Thank you Farida, hope you give this recipe a try soon 🙂
I don’t use eggs so I’m always looking for good dessert recipes without them. I made this and it came out great. The cake was moist and Light the gooey pudding was a great topping and everyone loved it.
Thanks for your feedback Gaura and I’m glad you liked the recipe.