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–+ servings
Devil's Food Float
Devil's Food Flake is a rich, nostalgic chocolate dessert that blends dark, velvety chocolate with a uniquely fluffy texture from melted marshmallows. This mid-century recipe captures the charm of old-school baking with its simple ingredients and clever preparation method. The topping of whipped cream and chopped nuts brings a delightful contrast to the cake’s moist crumb. Beloved for its comforting flavor and easy-to-follow method, this dessert has long been a family favorite for gatherings and special occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 366 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 ½ cup water
  • 12 marshmallows (quartered)
  • 2 tbsp shortening
  • ½ cup sugar (additional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 3 tbsp cocoa powder
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup chopped nuts
  • whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Base

  • Boil ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water.
  • Pour the mixture into a saucepan.
  • Add 12 quartered marshmallows and melt together.

Step 2: Cream Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, cream together 2 tbsp shortening, ½ cup sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla.

Step 3: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together 1 cup flour, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and 3 tbsp cocoa powder.

Step 4: Mix Batter

  • Alternate adding dry ingredients and ½ cup milk into the creamed mixture.
  • Add the melted marshmallow mixture and stir well.
  • Fold in ½ cup chopped nuts.

Step 5: Bake

  • Pour into greased pan.
  • Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

  • Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Tips

  • Use butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor.
  • Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder to deepen the chocolate taste.
  • Substitute walnuts, pecans, or omit nuts for a smoother texture.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
  • Replace marshmallows with mini marshmallows for easier layering.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  • Add ¼ cup chocolate chips to the batter for extra decadence.
  • Stir in shredded coconut for a “Rocky Road” twist.
  • For a lighter version, use evaporated milk instead of whole milk.
  • Bake in individual ramekins for single-serve portions.

Nutrition

Calories: 366kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 124mgPotassium: 124mgFiber: 2gSugar: 43gVitamin A: 35IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 2mg
Keyword chocolate pudding cake, comfort food, heirloom dessert, marshmallow dessert, old-fashioned recipe, retro baking, vintage recipe
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