3 Hole Devil'S Food Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich, moist devil's food cake featuring deep chocolate flavor with a unique three-hole method for adding vanilla, vinegar, and oil directly into the dry ingredients. Perfect for chocolate lovers and suitable for casual gatherings or special occasions, offering a straightforward, no-fail baking experience.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup cocoa
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 3 cups lukewarm water

Instructions

  1. Sift all dry ingredients together into an ungreased 9 x 13-inch cake pan. Make three holes in the dry mixture.
  2. In the first hole, put vanilla.
  3. In the second hole, put vinegar.
  4. In the third hole, put oil.
  5. Pour 2 cups of lukewarm water over all and mix well with a fork.
  6. Do not beat the mixture.
  7. Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
  8. Allow the cake to cool before icing.

Tips & Substitutions

When making this cake, ensure your water is lukewarm to help dissolve the cocoa and sugar effectively. You can substitute the oil with applesauce for a lighter version or use almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor twist. Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent lumps and ensures a light texture in the finished cake.

Serving Suggestions

This Devil's Food Cake pairs beautifully with a rich chocolate ganache or whipped cream for a decadent dessert. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It also makes a fantastic base for a layered cake; consider adding fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 3 Hole Devil'S Food Cake contains roughly 650 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 999mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).

650 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.6g 7% DV
Total Fat 63.7g 82% DV
Carbs 19g 7% DV
Fiber 6.9g 25% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 998.7mg 43% DV
Potassium 479.2mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 14.5mg 16% DV
Calcium 29mg 2% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Low-carb High-fiber
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pan size for this cake?

Yes, you can use different pan sizes, but baking time will vary. If using round pans, check for doneness after 25 minutes. For smaller pans, you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Always test with a toothpick to ensure the center is baked through.

Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum to help replicate the texture of traditional flour. This will allow you to enjoy a gluten-free version of this delicious Devil's Food Cake.

How can I add more flavor to this cake?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. A layer of rich frosting made with cream cheese can complement the cake's flavor profile beautifully.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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