Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3 tbsp (21g) cocoa powder
  • 1 egg (50g)
  • 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp (4g) baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the butter and whisk in the granulated sugar and 3 tbsp of cocoa powder. Note: Use low heat to avoid burning the butter.
  2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Gradually stir in the milk, then fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt until the batter is mahogany colored and free of large lumps.
  4. Pour the batter into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
  5. In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar and 1/4 cup of cocoa powder.
  6. Sprinkle this mixture evenly across the top of the raw batter without stirring. Note: Keep the cocoa layer on top; don't mix it in!
  7. Carefully pour the boiling water over the back of a spoon onto the cocoa layer to avoid disturbing the batter.
  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the edges are set and pulling slightly away from the sides, while the center remains slightly soft and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.