Three Way Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Cuisine: American

A rich, moist chocolate cake with a triple layer flavor profile, perfect for gatherings and celebrations, combining cocoa, sweetness, and tender texture.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 3/4 cup cocoa
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3 teaspoons baking soda
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 cups hot water
  • 3/4 cup oil

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee to the batter, which enhances the cocoa. If you prefer a lighter cake, substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rise. Also, sift the dry ingredients together for a smoother batter, which helps prevent lumps.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for added flavor. It also goes well with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a fun twist, serve alongside some Munchy Crunchy Cookies for a dessert platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Three Way Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds, or warm in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Three Way Cake contains roughly 2522 calories, with 27g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 193g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1531mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).

2522 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27.3g 55% DV
Total Fat 192.8g 100% DV
Carbs 174.7g 64% DV
Fiber 22.1g 79% DV
Sugar 1.2g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1530.9mg 67% DV
Potassium 1454mg 31% DV
Cholesterol 9.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.4mcg
Vitamin C 16.4mg 18% DV
Calcium 369.4mg 28% DV
Iron 15.7mg 87% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Egg 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. To achieve a lighter cake, mix half whole wheat flour with half all-purpose flour. Additionally, you might need to add a bit more liquid to the batter.

What can I do if I don’t have cocoa powder?

If you don't have cocoa powder, you can substitute it with an equal amount of carob powder for a different flavor. Alternatively, for a non-chocolate version, use the same amount of flour and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to enhance the flavor.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is ready. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.

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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