1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Prepare the First Layer

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of the white sugar, flour, 1/2 cup of the cocoa, baking powder, and salt.
2. Combine with melted butter, vanilla and milk. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Spread the above batter in a greased 2 quart glass baking dish (a 10″ glass pie plate will also work).

Prepare the Second Layer

1. In another bowl combine the remaining sugar and cocoa with the brown sugar. Use a whisk to do this so everything is well combined.
2. Sprinkle the above over top of the batter that was spread in the baking dish.

Prepare the Third Layer and Bake

1. Now, GENTLY pour the hot water over the powdered layer. DO NOT MIX THIS! The hot water must sit on top of these layers for the magic to happen! 😀
2. Now place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35 – 40 minutes.
3. Allow the pudding cake to stand for 15 – 20 minutes before serving.
4. Serve warm with a dollop of ice cream on top if desired! 😀