Ingredients

1    cup (250 mL) flour
3/4    cup (175 mL) white sugar
2    tbsp (30 mL) cocoa
2    tsp (10 mL) baking powder
1/4    tsp (1 mL) salt
1/2    cup (125 mL) milk
2    tbsp (30 mL) vegetable oil
1    tsp (5 mL) vanilla
1    cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar
1/4    cup (175 mL) cocoa
1    cup (250 mL) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 3/4    cups (425 mL) hot water
Vanilla or French Vanilla ice cream

Directions

Mix flour, white sugar, 2 tbsp cocoa, baking powder and salt in an ungreased 9x9x2-inch (23x23x5 cm) pan. Add milk, oil and vanilla, blending until smooth.

Sprinkle with brown sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa, and chopped nuts, if using. Pour hot water over the batter. Do not stir.

Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F (160°C). Enjoy the surprise with ice cream. Makes 6 servings.