Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake Recipe

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If you’re looking for a chocolate cake that surprises you with its rich texture and deep flavor, the Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake is an absolute must-try. This deceptively simple cake uses mayonnaise as a secret ingredient to create a moist, tender crumb that’s richer and more luscious than most traditional chocolate cakes. The combination of bittersweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and a hint of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, making it a decadent treat that feels both classic and unique. Trust me, once you taste this cake, it will become one of your favorites to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this cake plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and texture. From the bittersweet chocolate that provides depth to the mayonnaise that ensures incredible tenderness, these simple pantry staples come together to create something truly extraordinary.

• Bittersweet chocolate (4 ounces): Use high-quality 70% cacao chocolate for a rich, intense flavor that’s essential for the cake’s chocolaty base.
• Dark unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Opt for extra dark cocoa powder to deepen the chocolate flavor and contribute to the cake’s moist crumb.
• Dark coffee or boiling water (1 3/4 cups): The hot liquid enhances the chocolate notes and helps melt the chocolate for smooth mixing.
• All-purpose flour (2 2/3 cups): The structure of the cake depends on this basic ingredient, so measure carefully for perfect results.
• Baking soda (1 1/4 teaspoons) and baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): These leavening agents provide lift and lightness, helping the cake rise just right.
• Sugar (1 cup) and dark brown sugar (1 cup packed): The combination balances sweetness and adds complexity with a subtle molasses note from the brown sugar.
• Mayonnaise (1 1/3 cups): The star secret ingredient, adding moisture and richness without overwhelming the chocolate flavor — use full-fat for best results.
• Eggs (2) and egg yolk (1): Eggs give the cake structure, moisture, and a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A hint of warmth that complements and rounds out the chocolate flavors beautifully.
• Butter (2 1/4 cups softened): Used primarily for the frosting, adding creamy richness and a smooth texture.
• Confectioners’ sugar (1 1/2 cups): Gives frosting its sweet, silky finish.
• Cocoa powder for frosting (3/4 cup): Matches the cake’s deep chocolate flavor in the frosting for a harmonious bite.
• Hot double-strength coffee (1/2 cup): It intensifies the chocolate flavor in the frosting and adds a subtle sophistication.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings a gentle tang and tenderness to the frosting, keeping it luscious and balanced.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances the frosting’s sweet and chocolaty notes.
• Kosher salt (1 pinch): Small but important for bringing out the chocolate’s bold flavors.
• Dark chocolate (10 ounces chopped and melted): Adds richness and a glossy finish to the frosting.
• White corn syrup (1 tablespoon): Ensures a smooth, shiny texture in the frosting that spreads beautifully.

How to Make Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing three 8-inch cake pans. Grease them thoroughly and dust with cocoa powder to prevent sticking, a little extra step that guarantees a clean release and crisp edges. Meanwhile, melt the bittersweet chocolate gently in the microwave – just long enough to soften and stir to smooth perfection.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate and cocoa powder, then pour in the boiling coffee or water. Stir this mixture until it’s completely smooth and glossy. This liquid chocolate base not only gives the cake a deep, bold flavor but also adds moisture that keeps every crumb tender.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps, which helps the cake rise evenly with a velvety texture.

Step 4: Cream Sugar and Mayonnaise

Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the granulated sugar and mayonnaise until fully blended. This step is what makes the Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake so special — the mayonnaise enriches the batter without making it greasy, adding incredible moistness and a tender crumb.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings

One at a time, beat in the eggs and the additional yolk, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract for a fragrant lift that layers beautifully with the chocolate flavors.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Mixture

Switch your mixer to low speed. Add the dry ingredients in four additions, alternating with the chocolate-coffee mixture. This gentle folding technique keeps the batter light while fully integrating the ingredients for an even crumb.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key because the frosting only adheres beautifully to completely cooled layers.

Step 8: Whip Up the Frosting

Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat softened butter on medium speed for about six minutes until light and pale. Sift together the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder, then add this mixture gradually on low speed. Next, blend in the hot coffee, sour cream, vanilla, and salt. Beat on medium speed, whipping until fluffy. Finally, fold in melted dark chocolate and white corn syrup, giving your frosting that glossy, creamy finish that’s necessary for a perfect, luxurious layer on the cake.

How to Serve Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings instantly elevates this cake’s presentation. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and a tart contrast that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. For a festive touch, try edible gold leaf or a few mint leaves for freshness and elegance.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. For an adult twist, serve with a glass of dark coffee, espresso, or even a rich red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon to enhance the cake’s complexity.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake into petite squares for a charming tea party spread or layer it into a trifle with whipped cream and berries for a stunning dessert centerpiece. You can also serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce for an indulgent treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. It will keep beautifully at room temperature for up to two days, and if your kitchen is warm, refrigerate for up to five days without drying out.

Freezing

The cake layers themselves freeze very well. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and they will keep for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving. You can also freeze the frosted cake, but for the best texture, it’s ideal to add frosting fresh.

Reheating

If you like your cake slightly warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds before serving. This will soften the frosting a bit and make the chocolate flavor even more pronounced, offering a comforting, freshly baked experience with every bite.

FAQs

What makes a Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake different from a regular chocolate cake?

The key difference is the use of mayonnaise, which adds fat and moisture, creating a super tender and moist texture without making the cake taste like mayo. It essentially replaces oil or butter in the batter and gives the cake a rich, velvety crumb.

Can I substitute mayonnaise with something else?

Mayonnaise is quite unique in this recipe because of its oil and egg content. While some try sour cream or yogurt, these can alter the texture and flavor. For best results, stick to full-fat mayonnaise for that perfect moisture balance.

Is the coffee flavor strong in this cake?

No, the coffee is subtle and enhances the chocolate rather than overpowering it. If you prefer, you can use boiling water instead, but coffee brings out deeper chocolate notes and a hint of complexity that’s truly delicious.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

Properly stored, the cake stays fresh for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature and up to 5 days in the fridge. Always keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

You could substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but keep in mind that texture might vary. Make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free certified for best results.

Final Thoughts

Once you try the Chocolate Mayonnaise Cake, I promise it will become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. Its moist crumb, intense chocolate flavor, and wonderfully simple ingredients make it a cake that’s both approachable and incredibly impressive. Invite some friends, slice up this luscious treat, and enjoy the smiles that come from sharing something truly special.

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