This Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is a rich, moist, and indulgent dessert that became popular in the mid-1900s when home bakers discovered mayonnaise could replace butter and milk in cakes. The mayonnaise adds incredible tenderness while keeping the cake ultra-moist without any greasy texture. With cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor and a hint of vanilla, this vintage recipe remains a timeless treat that's perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or cozy family desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Sift again for a finer texture.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
- Add the mayonnaise, cold water, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat until smooth and shiny.
Step 3: Prepare Pans
- Grease and lightly flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter evenly into the pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Frost
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and place on a wire rack. Frost as desired.
Tips
- Use regular full-fat mayonnaise for best texture and moisture
- Coffee can replace part or all of the water to enhance chocolate flavor
- Batter will be thin; that is normal for mayonnaise cakes
- Line pans with parchment for easy release
- Cool completely before frosting to prevent crumbs
- Dust with powdered sugar or top with simple cocoa buttercream
- This cake freezes well when wrapped tightly once cooled
- Add mini chocolate chips for extra richness
- Use two 8-inch pans for layers or one 9×13-inch pan for a snack cake
- Do not overbake, remove when the center springs back lightly
Nutrition
Calories: 270kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 40IUCalcium: 15mgIron: 1.5mg
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