Best Ever Chocolate Cake
A rich, moist chocolate cake with a tender crumb, perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence, featuring cocoa and mayonnaise for a deep, satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients together.
- Add mayonnaise, cold water, and vanilla.
- Beat until well blended.
- Line two (9-inch) cake pans with waxed paper and divide batter evenly between pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool before removing from pans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you're out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be great substitutes to maintain moisture. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent lumps, and always check for doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful contrast, serve it alongside Mary'S Artichoke Dip as an appetizer. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate ganache for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to reheat slices, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Chocolate Cake contains roughly 139 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 999mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container. To enhance its flavor, let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving. If frosting, wait until you're ready to serve to add any toppings.
What can I use instead of sugar?
If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia or a natural sweetener such as honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that using liquid sweeteners may alter the cake's texture slightly, so adjust the dry ingredients accordingly.
Is this cake suitable for vegan diets?
This recipe is not vegan due to the mayonnaise, but you can easily adapt it. Use a vegan mayonnaise or replace it with a combination of unsweetened applesauce and almond milk to maintain moisture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy a delicious chocolate cake without compromising your dietary preferences.
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).