Recipe card with handwritten recipe for chocolate mayonnaise cake
by: salvagedrecipes

Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake from Mrs. Dougherty

Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake from Mrs. Dougherty
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is a beloved American dessert that rose to popularity during the Great Depression and World War II, when eggs and butter were scarce. Home bakers found mayonnaise, a combination of eggs and oil, to be a clever substitute that kept cakes moist and tender. This recipe reflects the resourcefulness of that era, transforming pantry staples into a decadent treat. Its simplicity, rich chocolate flavor, and incredibly soft texture have helped it stand the test of time. Whether served plain or frosted, it remains a nostalgic favorite across generations.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 17 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 4 tbsp cocoa
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and cocoa powder in a large bowl.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

  • In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, cold water, and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until there are no lumps. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Bake

  • Pour batter into a greased and floured pan (8×8 or 9×9 inches).
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Frost

Step 6: Storage

  • If not overbaked, the cake will stay light and moist for several days when stored covered at room temperature.

Tips

  • Use hot coffee instead of water for a deeper chocolate flavor.
  • Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips for texture and extra richness.
  • For a lighter version, use reduced-fat mayonnaise.
  • Top with chocolate ganache or whipped cream for an elegant finish.
  • Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth.

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 290mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.3mg
Keyword cake, chocolate, classic comfort food, easy baking, mayonnaise, moist cake, vintage
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!