Mrs. Thomas' Cake
A rich, moist chocolate cake with deep cocoa flavor, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence, loved by chocolate enthusiasts of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over cocoa and butter, and mix well.
- Add sour milk and sugar to the mixture and stir.
- Sift together flour, soda, and salt, then add to the mixture.
- Beat the batter well, then add vanilla and eggs, and beat again.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F until the cake is done, about 30 minutes.
- Ice with your favorite fudge frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can substitute buttermilk for sour milk. If you don't have cocoa powder, try using melted chocolate in the same amount. Ensure you mix the boiling water thoroughly with cocoa and butter to avoid lumps. This cake can also be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Let it cool completely before icing for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. Thomas' Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with cherry chocolate cake and frosting for a delightful dessert platter. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, as it retains its flavor well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Thomas' Cake contains roughly 282 calories, with 6g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% 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 use regular milk instead of sour milk?
Yes, if you don't have sour milk, you can make a substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using. This will mimic the acidity of sour milk and work well in the recipe.
What frosting goes well with this cake?
A classic fudge frosting complements the rich flavors of Mrs. Thomas' Cake beautifully. You can also try a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast or a simple chocolate ganache for extra decadence. Explore different frostings to find your favorite pairing.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead of time. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. Frost it just before serving to ensure the icing stays fresh and the cake remains moist.
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).