Devil’s Food Cake is a timeless classic in American baking, beloved for its deep, rich chocolate flavor and tender crumb. Unlike traditional chocolate cakes, this recipe uses unsweetened chocolate combined with sour or sweet milk to create a moist, velvety texture. Dating back to the early 20th century, Devil’s Food Cake became a symbol of indulgence, contrasting with the lighter “Angel Food Cake.” Its smooth, fudgy taste and slightly tangy notes make it perfect for celebrations, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- ½ cup shortening
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- 2 eggs (large)
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup sour or sweet milk
- 2 oz unsweetened chocolate (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate
- Melt unsweetened chocolate over low heat or using a double boiler.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cream the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shortening and sugar.
- Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time.
- Beat thoroughly until smooth.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry
- Alternately add the sifted dry ingredients and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
Step 6: Add Chocolate & Vanilla
- Stir in melted chocolate and vanilla extract.
- Mix until just combined.
Step 7: Bake
- Pour batter into two greased and floured 9-inch layer cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (moderate oven) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool & Frost
- Allow cakes to cool completely before removing from pans.
- Frost with your favorite chocolate or Wonder icing.
Tips
- Use two greased and floured 8- or 9-inch round pans for best results.
- Line pan bottoms with parchment circles for easier release.
- For deeper chocolate flavor, bloom the melted chocolate slightly warm into the batter.
- Sour milk or buttermilk will make the cake more tender and tangy than sweet milk.
- Do not overbake; begin checking at 28 to 30 minutes for moist crumb.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before icing (“Wonder icing” as written, or any favorite frosting).
- Level domed layers with a serrated knife for even stacking.
- Add ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.
- Substitute butter for shortening for richer flavor (texture will be slightly different).
Nutrition
Calories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 170mgFiber: 2gSugar: 29gVitamin A: 120IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 2.5mg