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–+ servings
Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 270 kcal

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
Keyword chocolate cake, classic dessert, easy baking, mayonnaise cake, moist chocolate cake, old-fashioned cake, one-bowl cake, vintage recipe
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