Mary'S Better Than Ever Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich, moist chocolate cake with a tender crumb, infused with grated semi-sweet chocolate and chocolate chips, perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
  • 1 block German semi-sweet chocolate
  • 1 (6 oz.) chocolate chips
  • 1 (8 oz.) sour cream
  • 1 cup Crisco oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. In a large bowl, pour in the cake mix, then add sour cream, oil, and eggs.
  3. Beat until smooth.
  4. Add grated semi-sweet chocolate, mix well, then fold in chocolate chips.
  5. Flour and grease a 13 x 9-inch cake pan.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  7. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. If you don't have Crisco oil, vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute. Ensure your chocolate is finely grated for even distribution throughout the batter. To enhance the cake's texture, let it cool completely before frosting or serving. This cake pairs beautifully with Granny Walker'S Whipped Cream Pound Cake for a delightful dessert spread.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of Simple Cherry Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend the shelf life, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy at room temperature for the best flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mary'S Better Than Ever Cake contains roughly 161 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.

161 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.1g 8% DV
Total Fat 7.3g 9% DV
Carbs 22g 8% DV
Fiber 1g 4% DV
Sugar 4.8g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 75.8mg 3% DV
Potassium 216.9mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 38.1mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 64.5mg 5% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 type of cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, to customize the cake to your liking. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so choose a mix that complements the chocolate well.

How can I make this cake more moist?

To increase the moisture in your cake, you might consider adding an extra egg or a bit of yogurt in place of some sour cream. Additionally, ensuring you don’t overbake the cake will help maintain its moisture.

Is it possible to freeze this cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake either whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

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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