This is killer hot fudge sauce. Like, eat it by the spoonful, good. You can use it right away or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. (The fudge will solidify in the fridge, but can easily be restored to pourable consistency with a few short bursts in the microwave, alternated with stirring).
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 stick salted butter, cut into pieces
1 tablespoon vanilla
In a medium saucepan, gently whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar. Whisk in the cream, then turn the heat to medium and whisk it as it warms up. When the mixture starts to heat up, add the butter and stir it in to melt. When the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved, remove the sauce from the heat and add the vanilla; stir to combine. Let the sauce cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer it to a mason jar. Store it in the fridge (it will become solid as it cools).
To serve, scoop out the amount you need and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for 20 seconds, then stir and heat for another 10 or until the sauce is warm.