Double Dutch Chocolate Fudge Upside-Down Cake

Preheat oven to 350.

In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar,2 tbsp of the cocoa powder, the baking powder and the salt. Add the milk,the oil and 1 tsp of the vanilla, and stir until blended. Stir in the nuts, if using. Pour the batter into greased 9x13 inch pan.

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar with the 1/4 cup cocoa powder;stir well. Spread this mixture over the batter in the pan. Using a large spoon,drizzle the boiling water over the cake, do not stir. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top of the cake is firm. Let the cake cool slightly. Meanwhile, whip the cream with the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla. Cut cake into squares and place them upside down (gooey side up) on dessert plates. Spoon a dollop of whipped cream onto each piece of cake.