Fudge Cake is a rich, cocoa-forward dessert that blends the texture of a dense brownie with the lightness of a classic cake. This handwritten version reflects mid-century American baking, where simple pantry staples like cocoa, sugar, and evaporated milk were transformed into indulgent treats. What makes this recipe stand out is its marshmallow topping and warm chocolate frosting poured over the cake, creating a gooey, layered finish. The use of oleo (butter substitute) also hints at its practical, budget-conscious origins. It’s a nostalgic dessert that delivers bold chocolate flavor with a soft crumb and a decadent finish.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 cup butter (or 2 sticks oleo)
- 4 cups cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt (scant)
- 1 cup nuts (chopped )
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping & Frosting:
- Marshmallows (enough to cover cake)
- ½ cup butter (or 1 stick melted oleo)
- 4 oz evaporated milk
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 lb powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease an 11×16-inch pan.
Step 2: Melt Base
- Melt butter and cocoa together until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Beat eggs and sugar together until well mixed.
- Pour into cocoa mixture.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
- Add sifted flour and salt.
- Mix well until combined.
Step 5: Finish Batter
- Stir in nuts and vanilla.
Step 6: Bake Cake
- Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes.
Step 7: Add Marshmallows
- Remove cake from pan immediately after baking.
- Cover top with marshmallows.
Step 8: Cut While Warm
- Cut cake into halves or squares while still warm, pressing lightly.
Step 9: Prepare Frosting Base
- Heat evaporated milk and butter together until warm.
Step 10: Mix Frosting
- Add powdered sugar, cocoa, and vanilla.
- Stir until smooth.
Step 11: Finish Frosting
- Spoon frosting slowly over warm cake and marshmallows.
Tips
- Use walnuts or pecans for added crunch
- Swap marshmallows for mini marshmallows for even coverage
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor
- Use butter instead of oleo for richer taste
- Top with shredded coconut for texture
- Add chocolate chips to batter for extra decadence
- Try a sheet pan for thinner cake layers
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
Nutrition
Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 5gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 42gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg
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