Making pudding cake is a fun and rewarding experience. Here are the steps to guide you through the process:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder (if making chocolate pudding cake), and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cocoa powder (if using) together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
7. Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour the boiling water over the top of the batter. Do not stir; it will create the pudding layer as it bakes.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the pudding cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps to set the pudding layer.
10. Serve Warm: Serve the pudding cake warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Following these steps will ensure you create a delicious pudding cake that everyone will love!