01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
02 -
In a bowl, mix ½ cup sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (optional). Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, then whisk until smooth. Pour into the prepared pan.
03 -
In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Pour boiling water over the top without stirring.
04 -
Bake for about 35 minutes, until the center is almost set and the pudding is bubbling underneath. Let the cake rest for 15 minutes before serving.
05 -
Spoon the cake into bowls, ensuring each portion includes some pudding sauce. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.