Sharla'S Mom'S Chocolate Cake
A rich, chocolatey cake layered with pudding and chocolate chips, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook the pudding mix and milk until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add the cake mix to the pudding.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch cake pan.
- Scatter chocolate chips evenly across the top of the cake mixture.
- Add chopped walnuts on top if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of 2%. You can also substitute half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate for a delightful contrast. Make sure the pudding is cooked until it thickens to ensure the cake has a moist texture. If you want to lighten it up, you can use a sugar-free cake mix and pudding. This recipe is a great way to indulge, so don't hold back!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this decadent chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. If you're planning a gathering, consider serving it alongside Quick Tomato Soup for a comforting meal or as a dessert after Baked Squash Sacramento for a delightful end to the evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chocolate cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for about five minutes. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharla'S Mom'S Chocolate Cake contains roughly 363 calories, with 5g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 510mg per serving (22% 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 a different flavor of pudding mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of pudding mix, such as vanilla or butterscotch, to create a unique twist on this chocolate cake. However, keep in mind that this may alter the overall flavor profile. Chocolate pudding, as specified, provides a rich and decadent base that complements the cake mix well.
What can I use instead of chopped walnuts?
If you prefer not to use walnuts, you can substitute them with other nuts like pecans or almonds for added crunch. Alternatively, you can omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version. For those looking for a different texture, consider adding shredded coconut or even a sprinkle of crushed cookies on top.
Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, this chocolate cake freezes well! To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to retain its moisture.
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).