1 1/4 c. sugar, divided
1 c. flour
7 tbsp. baking cocoa
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. milk
1/3 c. butter, melted
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. light brown sugar, packed
1 1/4 c. hot water
whipped topping (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Stir together 3/4 cup sugar, flour, 3 tablespoons cocoa, baking powder and salt. Stir in milk, butter and vanilla; beat until smooth. Spread batter into ungreased 8 or 9-inch baking pan. Stir together remaining 1/2 cup sugar, brown sugar and 4 tablespoons cocoa; sprinkle evenly over batter. Pour hot water over top. Do not stir.

Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until center is almost set. Let stand 15 minutes; spoon into dessert dishes, spooning sauce from bottom of pan over top. Garnish with whipped topping.

Serves 8.