Step 1

Preheat oven to 350° F and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.

Step 2

Into a bowl whisk together flour, granulated sugar, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, baking powder, espresso powder, baking soda and salt.

Step 3

In another bowl, combine milk, melted butter, and vanilla; stir into dry ingredients just until blended (do not over mix). Spread batter evenly into prepared baking pan.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, remaining 1/3 cup of cocoa powder. Sprinkle mixture evenly over cake batter. Carefully pour boiling water over the batter; DO NOT STIR.

Step 5

Bake the cake in the middle of the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a tester comes out with crumbs adhering to it. Cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.