In an 8 inch (20cm) square or a 9 inch (22cm) round cake pan, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, half the cocoa, baking powder and salt. Add the milk and vegetable oil combine well with a wooden spoon or spatula.
On top sprinkle first the brown sugar, then the remaining cocoa, and last the chocolate chips. Do not stir.
In a medium bowl add the very hot water (but not boiling water) and stir in the vanilla. Pour the water directly over the batter in the pan and do not stir. This method will give you more pudding when baked.
OR if you prefer more cake than pudding, then stir the mixture in the pan, then pour the hot water over it. Again do not stir. For both methods, do not stir the hot water into the mixture, it must sit on top.
Bake for approximately 30 minutes, just until the sides start to pull away from the pan and the top starts to crack slightly, the middle will be a little jiggly. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or some whipped cream. Enjoy!
Notes
The cake is done when the sides start to pull away from the pan and the top starts to crack slightly, the middle will be a little jiggly. Do not over bake or you will be without any pudding!Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container. It will last 4-5 days in the fridge. It can be re-heated in a 350F (180C) oven for approximately 10 minutes or in the microwave.The completely cooled cake can be stored in the freezer in a freezer safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw, then reheat as above.